Hi my name is Melanie Cuesta and I’ve always believed in the power of running—not just as a way to push my limits physically, but as a way to bring people together and stand for something greater than myself. This year, as I lace up my shoes for the New York Marathon, I’m running not just for the finish line, but for a cause close to my heart: the Human Rights Campaign.

The fight for equal rights, dignity, and respect for everyone—regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or identity—has never felt more urgent. When I think of the hurdles the LGBTQ+ community faces daily, myself included as a lesbian woman of color, I realize that the miles ahead of me on the course are nothing compared to the struggles so many still endure in their fight for equality and acceptance.

The Human Rights Campaign has been a leader in advocating for equality, pushing for positive change, and working tirelessly to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. They are committed to building a future where everyone can live with dignity and without fear, and I want to do my part to help make that vision a reality.

As I take on this marathon, every step I take will be for those who fight for their rights every day. Each mile represents more than just training or personal achievement—it represents solidarity. It’s about running alongside the voices of those who are still working towards equality, safety, and love.

By supporting my fundraising efforts, you’re not just cheering me on as I chase my goal of crossing the finish line in New York, you’re helping to fuel a movement that is working to ensure that all people, regardless of who they love or how they identify, have the chance to live fully and freely.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Together, we can make sure that the race for human rights continues, and that no one is left behind.