Diversity in the Ranks

March 6, 2014

by

DignityUSA

<p>By Jim Smith DignityUSA Associate Director&nbsp;</p> <p><img alt= src=https://www.dignityusa.org/sites/default/files/civicrm/custom/Screen_Shot_2014_03_06_at_3_39_54_PM_212b9207a24dcfaff0fa097a7fdae021.png style=float:right; height:151px; margin:5px; width:150px />On a visit to Dignity/Houston I had the pleasure to see their President Tierra Ortiz-Rodriguez in action. What is somewhat unique about this chapter President is that Tierra is not Catholic. Her deep interest in&nbsp;the work of justice and her sense that humans are made for community among other reasons are what drew Tierra to the Catholic community. Tierra is also straight and a strong ally to LGBT persons and families. Dignity&rsquo;s mission to call the Church and society to fully embrace the dignity and equality of LGBT persons and families attracted her to Dignity/Houston (and before that Dignity/Honolulu). Tierra works as an organizer at Houston&rsquo;s LGBT community hub the Montrose Center.</p> <!--break--> <p>It was a privilege to watch Tierra interact with current members and with visitors new to Dignity. She was proactive generous and personable and her kin in Dignity/Houston obviously know a good leader when they see and elect one.&nbsp;</p>