In this photo, we see a beautifully adorned Virgin Mary altar, surrounded by vibrant flowers. This image represents my Catholic faith that is central to my community and family. As a Catholic and a member of the QTBIPOC community, my relationship with my religion is complex and often filled with tension. In my town, which is predominantly Hispanic and deeply religious, being openly queer is often viewed as ’wrong’ with Catholic teachings. This picture, however, signifies more than just religious devotion; it shows my reliance on faith and the Virgin Mary for guidance, hope, and strength through life's challenges. What is really happening here is a personal and familial expression of faith that transcends the societal norms and prejudices I face. My mother creates this altar every year as an act of gratitude and reverence for the Virgin Mary, who has been a source of solace for our family. Despite the broader community's views, my parents have been incredibly supportive of me, and this altar is a testament to the love and acceptance within our family. It demonstrates that our faith and devotion can coexist with our acceptance of diverse identities, challenging the exclusionary attitudes often found in religious communities. This image relates to our lives by highlighting the intersection of faith and identity. It demonstrates the struggle many LGBTQ+ individuals face in reconciling their spirituality with their sexuality, particularly in conservative or religious communities. This altar, a product of my mother's love and dedication, represents a space where our faith and identities are celebrated rather than conflicted. It serves as a reminder that acceptance and understanding can prevail over extremism and exclusion. To mitigate the negative impacts of extremism on QTBIPOC communities, it is essential to foster environments that embrace both cultural and individual identities, promoting inclusivity and empathy within all spheres of life.