Because I feel more comfortable learning in a group of like-minded people, I founded Dorks on Decks . We are a skate crew of skaters aged 30 and older who use the pronouns she/her or they/them . In a culture that is often young and masculine, we wanted to create a place where you can safely, enjoyably, and seriously work on your skills. Together we learn, fall, laugh – and grow. This year we celebrate our fifth anniversary, and more and more people are finding us. It's wonderful to see how much need there is for an accessible and inclusive skate spot.
"It's great to see how much need there is for an accessible and inclusive skate spot."
I am queer (she/her) and luckily, the skatepark where I often skate is very open-minded. They do their best to be inclusive, and because of that, I feel welcome there. That wasn't always the case. When I first started skating, I found it quite nerve-wracking to practice outside in the skatepark. That was partly because I was still unstable on my board, but also because of the atmosphere.
Remarks like "that was gay" when a trick didn't work, or graffiti with the word "homo" ... It didn't feel like a place where I could be myself. Sometimes, people would also look askance if a trick worked for me as a woman, but not for a male skater. Once, when I scraped my shin and put a bandage on it myself, I got the remark: "Hey, are you menstruating or something?" Such jokes made me feel: we see you as a woman first, then as a skater. But I want to be seen as a skater first in the skatepark. Then as a woman, partner, mother, or queer person.
"I am queer (she/her) and luckily the skatepark where I often skate is very open-minded. They do their best to be inclusive, and that's why I feel welcome there. That wasn't always the case."
Besides being a skater, I'm also a primary school teacher. I'm open about who I am there too. If students insult each other with words like "gay," I intervene immediately. I explain why that's hurtful and unacceptable. Especially now – with the political developments making me worried about the future of the FLINTA community – it feels important to make my voice heard.
My sporting goal? To keep improving myself. Not to become the best, but to stay true to my own growth and enjoyment. To other skaters who – like me – started later in life and found their passion: I think you're amazing. It takes courage to step into a new world.
And to young LGBTQIA+ people, I would say: find like-minded people. Join a crew, a buddy, a platform – people who understand, support, and inspire you. You don't have to do it alone.
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