Hi, I'm Ramon. I'm not a robot or an engine; I'm a real "every day" gay man living in the Harlem section of New York City. Here, you'll find hundreds of original articles that I've written to help you "live a better gay life." You'll also find my blog, featuring commentary on our lives and the issues that affect gay, bisexual, transgender-identified or questioning people. Have a pressing question or need urgent advice? Join my forum, a safe space where you can commune with other LGBT-identified people and our allies.
Thank you for visiting Gay Life on About.com. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me by clicking the "Email Me" link above.
Ramon Johnson is a new media journalist and the editor of About.com: Gay Life, a position he's held since 2002. The commentary, advice, and resources Ramon provides outlines the essentials of what it means to be gay and "how to live a better gay life."
In 2008, Ramon was named "GLBT Person of the Year" by GayAgenda.com and was one of Clik Magazine's Elite 25 in media for his contributions to the LGBT community. He has also been a guest gay lifestyle expert on Proper Television's "TV Made Me Do It," Q Television's "On Q Live," "The Derek and Romaine Show" on Sirius Satellite Radio and New York's Power 105 morning radio show.
Ramon has been quoted in The New York Times and was a featured panelist on the New York Times "TimesTalks" Gay and Lesbian Speaker Series. Ramon volunteers at The Ali Forney Center and the Reciprocity Foundation. He is also a regular speaker at Live Out Loud, an LGBT youth leadership organization.
I remember the fear, pain and loneliness I felt as a young adult, knowing I was "different," but too afraid to say the word "gay" because of the fear of the unknown. I thought I was the only one. I did find some relief in the gay characters I saw on TV or in the movies, but even they seemed far removed from my reality. Not being out was eating me up inside. I was relieved when I finally did find help from a friend—a real person who gave me real advice. I slowly started to come out and never looked back.
I soon discovered that coming out isn't a one-time event. Once I did come out, I had a million other questions from building a relationship to starting a family to filling out my taxes to buying the perfect gift.
Here at Gay Life on About.com, I am committed to helping you answer your life questions in a safe, supportive and active environment.