Danbi Han recently joined the Human Resource Services (HRS) team at the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC), and already they have found a sense of community, particularly with the SFPUC’s LGBTQIA+ employee affinity group. It’s a group, Danbi says, that has helped them meet team members outside of HRS and provided a safe space to share their experiences.
That hasn’t always been the case. Danbi, who uses they/them pronouns, grew up in Los Angeles where they enjoyed the diversity of a metropolitan city, and attended UC San Diego for college. They like living in the Bay Area for its “big city yet small town vibes.” However, even though the Bay Area is known for being queer-friendly, Danbi has experienced some moments of discomfort and even hostility from others. “I present as queer, and I’m not shy about it. That can bring strange looks that I sometimes see on people’s faces, though.”
That’s why Danbi embraces Pride as a celebration of self. “It can be challenging to navigate the world as a queer-presenting person. I’m thankful for a month where we can be ourselves without fear, judgment, or misunderstanding. It’s a time to gather with similar people where you can be free to express yourself however you’d like,” they said.
Danbi also points out that Pride is an opportunity to learn and grow from others. They themselves have been inspired by iconic figures like Marsha P. Johnson, who advocated for homeless LGBTQ+ youth, those affected by HIV and AIDS, and gay and transgender rights. “She was Black, queer, and gender-nonconforming, and was a forerunner in standing up for these communities. Pride wouldn’t exist without her pioneering work, and I want to pay homage to her.”
In addition to remembering Marsha’s legacy, Danbi is excited to spend Pride month with SFPUC colleagues in their work as an Associate People Business Partner in HRS. On the weekends, they enjoy hiking, nature, and movies like Who’s On Top, a documentary about a group of queer climbers. They also like attending live music events and exploring good food places.