The whole Our Circle team is thrilled to reintroduce our Managing Director - Jael - CeeJay and JayCee's mom!
Just a few years ago, Our Circle had the immense honor of introducing Derricia Jael as our first Managing Director to lead the fight for LGBT-formed family equality. And today, we are thrilled to reintroduce our fearless leader under a name that reflects who she is and how she wants to move through the world. Friends, say hello to Jael - CeeJay and JayCee's mom!
Every day in this work, we advocate for the authenticity and happiness of LGBT-formed families — and, as Jael steps into this new chapter of her life, she reminds us all that personal growth and self-discovery are not only ongoing processes but also journeys worthy of celebration. Jael's decision to expand her family models a truth central to this work: Every one of us has the right to define our identity and live authentically.
“Our family (formed or chosen) is a fundamental aspect of our identity and serves as a powerful means of self-expression,” writes Areine Castillo, Director of Fundraising for Our Circle. “By expanding her family, Jael is showcasing her capacity for growth and change, inspiring others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and self-expression. In doing so, Jael contributes to a more empathetic world where people are recognized and accepted for who they truly are. ”
Before creating Our Circle, Jael faced many challenges - from navigating the complex social and legal challenges of being a part of the LGBT community in Belize, to becoming a national champion of justice and equality. Her personal journey mirrors our community’s broader narrative of progress and change. Every step of her path — from the growing pains of self-discovery to becoming a parent and a leader in social justice — has prepared Jael to fiercely defend the values we treasure most: love, family, and freedom.
In celebrating Jael’s new addition to her family, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and admiration for her courage. May her journey inspire us all to reflect on our own paths and find the strength to be true to ourselves. Here’s to Jael and to each of us on our unique journeys toward authenticity!
Just a few years ago, Our Circle had the immense honor of introducing Derricia Jael as our first Managing Director to lead the fight for LGBT-formed family equality. And today, we are thrilled to reintroduce our fearless leader under a name that reflects who she is and how she wants to move through the world. Friends, say hello to Jael - CeeJay and JayCee's mom!
Every day in this work, we advocate for the authenticity and happiness of LGBT-formed families — and, as Jael steps into this new chapter of her life, she reminds us all that personal growth and self-discovery are not only ongoing processes but also journeys worthy of celebration. Jael's decision to expand her family models a truth central to this work: Every one of us has the right to define our identity and live authentically.
“Our family (formed or chosen) is a fundamental aspect of our identity and serves as a powerful means of self-expression,” writes Areine Castillo, Director of Fundraising for Our Circle. “By expanding her family, Jael is showcasing her capacity for growth and change, inspiring others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and self-expression. In doing so, Jael contributes to a more empathetic world where people are recognized and accepted for who they truly are. ”
Before creating Our Circle, Jael faced many challenges - from navigating the complex social and legal challenges of being a part of the LGBT community in Belize, to becoming a national champion of justice and equality. Her personal journey mirrors our community’s broader narrative of progress and change. Every step of her path — from the growing pains of self-discovery to becoming a parent and a leader in social justice — has prepared Jael to fiercely defend the values we treasure most: love, family, and freedom.
In celebrating Jael’s new addition to her family, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and admiration for her courage. May her journey inspire us all to reflect on our own paths and find the strength to be true to ourselves. Here’s to Jael and to each of us on our unique journeys toward authenticity!