In a deeply candid and insightful interview with Matt Wood of Woodworks Therapy, President Jonathan Swindle of Pride Corpus Christi and The Mosaic Project of South Texas reflected on the evolution of the organization, the urgent challenges facing the LGBTQIA+ community, and the future of advocacy and visibility in South Texas.

The conversation opened with a look at Swindle’s personal journey, from growing up in Bishop, Texas, to founding a web development business, launching a software platform in Chicago, and ultimately leading Pride Corpus Christi through a transformative period. Under his leadership, Pride Corpus Christi has grown from a grassroots parade into a year-round force for community-building and systemic change.

“Pride Corpus Christi does not own Pride. It belongs to our community,” Swindle emphasized. That philosophy guided the expansion of June’s Pride Month from a handful of events into more than 40 community-driven celebrations this year. These ranged from theater performances and church services to youth art workshops and drag brunches, powered by local partners like All Saints Episcopal Church, Strengthening Wellness, and the Texas Riviera Empire.

But the work is about more than celebration. As Swindle detailed, “This year, Pride is also a form of protest and resistance.” With federal and state-level attacks on LGBTQIA+ rights intensifying, Pride Corpus Christi has taken on a more activist posture, declining performative city proclamations, investing in grassroots organizing, and protecting vulnerable members of the community.

One major shift in focus is support for the transgender community. From a new Transgender Resource Initiative that provides free binders, packers, and affirming items, to monthly support groups facilitated by licensed mental health professionals and drag artists, the organization is meeting real, unmet needs with dignity and care.

Swindle also shared plans for long-term infrastructure: launching Unity 89.1 FM, a community radio station designed to elevate queer voices and build bridges with other marginalized groups; partnering with the Art Center of Corpus Christi for free youth programming; and laying the groundwork for a future LGBTQIA+ youth shelter modeled on Tony’s Place in Houston and Thrive Youth Center in San Antonio.

Throughout the discussion, Swindle called for more than passive allyship. “Don’t just be a safe person by name, be a safe person through action,” he urged. Whether by volunteering, donating, or simply standing up in moments of harm, everyone has a role to play. “If we’re doing nothing, we’re not helping,” he added.

Importantly, Swindle reminded viewers that community is built in person, not just online. “Get out from behind your computer. Show up. Be visible. Be kind. That’s how we make Corpus Christi a better place to live.”

To get involved, explore opportunities to volunteer, attend events, or join the newsletter. Those looking to support specific initiatives like the Transgender Resource Initiative or Unity 89.1 FM can find donation links and program details on the site.

As Swindle concluded, “There’s an endless supply of bad news. So it’s up to us to highlight and build the good. We’re doing that here in Corpus Christi, and we’re just getting started.”