Finding her voice – Misty’s story

Taco Bell Blog

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) Pride Month is celebrated each June in honor of the 1969 Stonewall uprising in Manhattan. Today, celebrations include parades, picnics, parties, workshops, and more — uniting millions of participants around the world for a month of solidarity. Pride Month is not only a time to celebrate diverse backgrounds and unique experiences, but also a time to recognize the global impact and achievements that LGBTQIA+ people have had and continue to have.

The theme of NYC Pride this year is “Reflect, Empower and Unite.” To honor this month and our people, we are amplifying the voices of those in the LBGTQIA+ community who are advancing their careers at Taco Bell.

Misty grew up in an unconventional way, which led her down a path that felt like it didn’t “fit” her.

“I grew up in foster care, got married at 18 and had kids. Nothing felt right; that wasn’t me. After I left (that relationship) behind, I found my person, and she helped me raise my kids, even though they weren’t biologically hers.”

Misty met her partner at a Pride event. From the first date, they spoke nonstop and have been together ever since. Years later, Misty’s partner underwent gender reassignment surgery and became her husband.

“When I started the relationship with my partner, the people around me didn’t really accept us – so it became a kind of security issue. It was a tough time and I didn’t know how to take care of myself.”

That’s why Misty believes it’s so important to focus on mental health and safety when it comes to exploring one’s sexuality. One way she pays that forward is by telling others her story.

“It took me a long time to open up and reveal my past. Then I met Lori T. (a manager at Taco Bell) who supported and encouraged me the whole time. I finally opened up and shared my story with others who had known me for 14 years but never knew who I really was.”

Since then, Misty has been able to grow and process her past in ways she never thought possible. By speaking her truth and finding a voice within herself, she has been able to foster an inclusive environment by building connections with others with similar pasts or present. Now, she is a sounding board for her coworkers at Taco Bell.

So how did she end up at The Bell?

“I discovered Taco Bell through an event where I was then working as an owner and operator of another fast-food restaurant brand. During the conversation, the employee asked me what I planned to do if I left that role. That conversation led to a meeting and the rest is history.”

Over the past 14 years, Misty has made some great memories, including participating in many recognition events such as Golden Bell.

When it comes to those who want to become more involved in the LGBTQIA+ community, knowledge is key, Misty said.

“The most valuable thing I can offer those who want to become more involved in the community is the power of knowledge and self-education. The world is not always kind, and your family may not always be either. It is extremely important to surround yourself with things that will help you on your journey. Knowing your resources and using them can be very powerful.”

Yum! Brands

Yum! Brands

Yum! Brands, Inc., based in Louisville, Kentucky, has over 54,000 restaurants in more than 155 countries and territories and operates the company’s brands – KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell – global leaders in the chicken, pizza and Mexican food categories. The company’s family of brands also includes The Habit Burger Grill, a fast-casual restaurant concept specializing in grilled-to-order burgers, sandwiches and more. Yum! Brands was named to the 2021 Dow Jones Sustainability Index North America and was on Newsweek’s 2021 list of America’s Most Responsible Companies. In 2022, Yum! Brands was named one of 3BL Media’s 100 Best Corporate Citizens.

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