Help us make a meaningful legacy for Michael

On February 5, 2023, I lost the brightest, warmest, most important light in my life, my dear friend Michael.

To call Michael a friend doesn’t really capture how important he was to me, or others. Honestly, it’s hard to find any way to capture the profound impact that Michael made on every person he encountered. Michael lived with a passion and openness that endeared him immediately to anyone who was blessed to meet him. He was a devoted son, brother, partner and friend who went out of his way to make other people’s days brighter, and he used every opportunity to make his little corner of the world better. Michael was love, pure and simple.

And through this love, Michael created incredible communities. He was a passionate writer and scholar who spent countless hours encouraging people to discover their voice and helping them cultivate skills to express themselves. He was committed to social change, calling out injustices and transgressions point blank. As a PhD candidate at Yale, Michael used his position to create new opportunities for disenfranchised people, especially queer youth of color. He loved drag and magic and queer folk, and he spent every waking breath making space for queer love, joy, and family.

Years ago, Michael and I had made a vow to each other that, no matter what, we’d always take care of each other. That we’d make sure the other was okay. And even though he is gone, I feel compelled to keep my vow to him and make sure his memory is properly cared for.

For that reason, we are raising funds for two things. First, to help Michael’s family cover necessary expenses and make sure that we can celebrate Michael’s life in the way he deserves. And second, to establish the Michael Joseph Foundation which will provide scholarships to disadvantaged queer youth who plan to pursue a life in the humanities.

Michael still had so much to give this world. Please consider donating to help us celebrate Michael’s life and legacy and make sure his impact continues to be felt by all. Any amount helps and is greatly appreciated.