Chris C., is a California stan. He was born and raised in Chino, California, and doesn’t see himself leaving a place within a short driving distance from the beach.
“I’ve never lived out of the state, but I can’t imagine living anywhere else either. Growing up playing little league throughout childhood, I’d say my life was pretty ordinary. My parents were high school sweethearts, so they got married young. I have a very big family on both sides and am one of four siblings, so there’s always something going on like graduations or birthday parties. I was very close to them growing up, and still am.”
As soon as Chris graduated high school, he went to college and got his B.A. in psychology, as he wanted to pursue clinical psychology. But at the end of those four years, Chris realized that this path wasn’t for him.
“I ended up staying and working at the university as a program coordinator where I learned about instructional design. I started designing university level courses and delving deep into that world. Then, COVID hit, and I found some extra time on my hands, so I got my Masters in instructional design and set off to try the corporate world. After working as an instructional designer for a few companies doing their internal trainings, I ended up at Taco Bell Corp.”
Although Chris has only been with the brand for a couple of months, he’s found himself in love with the culture!
“I’ve never experienced a workplace culture like this one. It was a culture shock for me because I always grew up thinking you’re not supposed to have fun at work. When I got to Taco Bell, it was so easy to meet people that are just like me, with similar interests, but also queer. So I think getting to know people that you work with on a deeper level also creates a great experience for the brand from a business standpoint."
Now, Chris spends his time after work on the OutLoud Sports kickball team that he joined through friends he met at work! So far, Taco Bell has been a place where he’s been able to show up as his authentic self, which is important to him.
“I’m proud to be part of the LGBTQ+ community; we refuse to be ashamed, celebrating who we are and how far we’ve come. It’s important to stand in solidarity, come together with other queer individuals, and continue to lift each other up. Everyone has their own story and comes from different backgrounds, but we share the common goal of wanting to be included.”
Looking to the future, Chris hopes to leave a legacy of empowering others around him.
“One thing I want to be remembered for is being myself and empowering those around me to do the same. I was the first person to come out as queer in my family, and it ultimately had a happy ending so I’m proud of being a trailblazer. I also hope people remember me based on how much good I’ve done and the lives I’ve affected for the better.”