Speech at the Sam Nordquist Community Vigil
A SPEECH GIVEN AT THE COMMUNITY VIGIL TO HONOR
THE LIFE AND MEMORY OF
MONSIEUR SAM NORDQUIST
by
Her Majesty The Queen
Beloved community,
We gather tonight, not only in mourning but as sentinels of justice—united in purpose, unwavering in resolve. Beneath a sky heavy with sorrow, let the world know: the fire within us burns brighter than the darkness that surrounds us.
We stand in remembrance of Sam Nordquist—a man of truth, courage, and heart—whose life was taken not by fate, but by hatred. Hatred fueled by the lies of those who wield power to oppress rather than protect. From the podiums to the pulpits, screens to stages,, forces conspire to strip us of dignity, erase our existence, and crush our spirit beneath the weight of their fear.
They call us a threat—yet we are the builders of families, the architects of community. They fear not what we are, but what we represent: that truth is boundless, that humanity defies limits, and that the soul cannot be contained by the smallness of their laws or the cruelty of their hearts.
To those who seek to silence us through violence—and to those who stand by in silence—know this: We are unbreakable. For every attack, for every life stolen, thousands will rise, marching with greater force, speaking with unwavering conviction, and demanding justice with voices that will not be ignored.
To those who lash out from their pulpits and podiums, hear this: We do not flinch. We do not fall. We do not forget. History will hold you to account. Your cruelty will not be erased.
And neither will our resilience. When the pages of time turn, they will tell of those who endured, who defied, and who overcame every barrier set in their path.
To my trans siblings: Your life is priceless, your presence a gift to this world. We are not a burden to be solved but a wonder to be celebrated. Hold your head high, for we are the promise of the future.
Sam Nordquist left this world too soon, but his name will live on—not only in our hearts, but in every battle for justice, every stand against tyranny, and every dawn that follows a night of struggle.
Together, we are formidable and powerful. That same power the weak and intolerant fear and try their best to dismantle. But in solidarity, we find the courage to move forward despite the challenges before us. And if peace is not given to us, then we shall create it through our determination and collective strength.
So I charge you now: stand firm, live boldly. Our existence is righteous, our hearts are strong, and our victory toward equality is inevitable.
Rest in power, Sam. Your fight continues through us, and in your name, we will prevail.
Thank you.
