MassLive recently asked readers to identify people who are leaders from the LGBTQ+ community throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts.
Profiles of these leaders will be published through the rest of February. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Jason Homer, Executive Director of The Worcester Public Library, Worcester, MA.Sebastian Restrepo
Age: 37
Community: Worcester
His story: As a public librarian, Jason Homer holds a vital responsibility for fostering positive community growth. Through collaborating with colleagues and community members, Homer strives to broaden perspectives, challenge norms and empower people to reach their fullest potential.
“While libraries are meant to be inclusive spaces, acknowledging that we may fall short in truly welcoming everyone is crucial,” Homer told MassLive.
As executive director of the Worcester Public Library, Homer said his primary objective is to actively engage with the Worcester community and demonstrate how important the library is to people’s lives.
“Representation is key, both in our collections and staff, as we endeavor to actualize equity and justice goals. However, amplifying marginalized voices has also sparked opposition, evident in the high number of book challenges in Massachusetts, particularly targeting BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ narratives,” Homer told MasssLive.
Growing up in Brockton, and attending public schools, Homer found himself deeply appreciative of diversity. His circle of friends encompassed various cultures, financial backgrounds and sexual orientations, which influenced his life perspective, he said.
“I still recall when the President of Cabo Verde came to visit Brockton High. Witnessing the profound effect it had on my Cape Verdean peers left an indelible mark on me. These moments ignited my awareness of privilege and inspired my path towards a career in education,” Homer hold MassLive.
But, traditional teaching didn’t align with his aspirations, he said. Instead, Homer wanted to go for a career that “could enhance experiences for all individuals,” he said. So, he studied English literature at Stonehill College and discovered a passion for libraries. This led him to a master’s degree in library and information science at Simmons University.
“During this journey, it quickly became clear that my true calling lay in public libraries, where I could address diverse and urgent needs within the community,” Homer told MassLive.
Homer focuses on on dismantling barriers and expanding access in his role at the Worcester Public Library, he said.
Libraries serve as vital bastions of knowledge in a period where misinformation and disinformation is becoming more prevelant, Homer said. But, there are concerted efforts to silence traditionally marginalized voices.
“Yet, librarians nationwide are bravely pushing back against book bans and challenges. In this critical juncture, I take immense pride in advocating for inclusivity and access within our library systems. It’s a privilege to champion the fundamental role libraries play in fostering informed and equitable societies,” Homer said.
In his words: “For those embarking on the journey of librarianship, my foremost advice is to embrace the dynamic nature of the profession. A hallmark of this career is the absence of monotony; each day presents new challenges, opportunities, and interactions. From engaging with parent groups advocating for enhanced library accessibility for their children to providing support to a teenager exploring their gender identity through literature, the spectrum of responsibilities is vast and ever-evolving.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
