By definition, a proxy war is a war instigated by a major power which does not itself become involved. Growing up in a sheltered environment, they used to be ignorant and close-minded, but acknowledging their queerness helped them to open their eyes, mind and heart. Their introspection enabled their extrospection. Through this ongoing journey, they have come to learn of how the personal is political – and the lack of substantive action from the top is harming the lives of fellow LGBTQ+ folks. In this presentation, Elijah (they/them) shares about everything about and surrounding their queerness – coming out, facing discrimination, getting involved in advocacy, activism and politics, and simply being and becoming.