NEVER BLEND IN - David E Hull-Watters

NEVER BLEND IN, by National Diversity Award Winner David E Hull-Watters, is an accessible and powerful toolkit for living unlimited; candid stories and wise words which encourage, inspire, uplift and give hope to those who need it most, those who may feel disenfranchised or who may lack self-belief. 

This ground-breaking, vital book of exclusive celebrity and deeply personal non-celebrity testimonies is aimed primarily at a young lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning audience, but it is also of great value to educators, parents, family and mental health professionals seeking insight into the LGBTQ experience.

Role models from education, entertainment, law enforcement, medical and emergency services, politics, religion and sports have participated in this much-needed discourse to illuminate the reader’s journey of self-discovery and to illustrate that living a life unlimited by labels will lead to personal, professional and spiritual fulfilment.

NEVER BLEND IN includes original and insightful interviews with actors Alan Cumming OBE (Cabaret, Spy Kids, The Good Wife), Stephen Fry (Peter’s Friends, Wilde), Anthony Rapp (Rent, Star Trek Discovery), Heather Matarazzo (Welcome to the Dollhouse, The Princess Diaries, The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, The Devil's Advocate, Scream 3, Sorority Boys, Saved! and Hostel: Part 2), Daniel Newman (The Walking Dead, The Vampire Diaries, Homeland), Colton Ford (The Lair), Marcus Patrick (My Wife & Kids, CSI: Miami, Passions and Dancing With The Stars), Adele Anderson (Fascinating Aida), Clare Summerskill (stand-up, writer, actress, and singer-songwriter); key equality advocates, educators and influencers of policy Sue Sanders (Schools Out), Jason Jones (LGBTQI+ activist from Trinidad and Tobago who successfully challenged the constitutionality of Sections 13 and 16 of the Sexual Offences Act prohibiting consensual adult intercourse), Phyllis Akua Opoku-Gyimah (also known as Lady Phyll; co-founder, trustee and executive (formerly managing) director of UK Black Pride), Maurice Tomlinson (Jamaican attorney-at-law and senior policy analyst with the Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network), Charles Robbins (former CEO, The Trevor Project), Bevan Dufty, Alex Randolph, Stephen Williams MP, Jack MacKenroth (Project Runway, Queens of Drag: NYC), Rabbi Denise Eger, Lt. Dan Choi and veteran human rights campaigner, Peter Tatchell; photographer, Mike Ruiz; filmmakers Parvez Sharma (A Jihad for Love), Mobeen Azhar and Casper Andreas (A Four Letter Word, Between Love and Goodbye, A Last Farewell); musicians Darren Hayes (Savage Garden), Horse McDonald, and Levi Kreis (Tony Award winner for "Best Featured Actor in a Musical" for his role as Jerry Lee Lewis in the Broadway musical Million Dollar Quartet) ; sporting greats, NBA star, John Amaechi (author of Man in the Middle) Jake Bain (former Indiana State defensive back who gained national spotlight status appearing on "The Ellen Show")  and Olympic swimmer Bruce Hayes; transgender trailblazers Calpernia Addams, the Rev David E. Weekley (author of In from the Wilderness and Retreating Forward), Michael Eric Brown (Executive Director at TransMentors International, Inc.), Caroline Paige (author of True Colours: My Life as the First Openly Transgender Officer in the British Armed Forces), Jamison Green (author of Becoming a Visible Man); Mental Health professionals, Gladeana McMahon, Antoine Spiteri and Dr. John Shafer; writers Tom Robb Smith (Child 44, The Secret Speech), Leslea Newman (A Letter to Harvey Milk), Linda Goldman (Coming Out, Coming In), Michael Musto (The Village Voice); Del Shores (Sordid Lives); representatives from organizations including The Trevor Project, PFLAG, FireFLAG, The Gay Police Association, Schools Out; the utterly inspirational, Sister Roma (San Francisco's Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence) and colleagues of Harvey Milk; Anne Kronenberg, Daniel Nicoletta and Tom Ammiano.  

These engaging stories of living authentically, with dignity and unlimited by labels will help readers to understand how self-belief determines the path that they choose and that life need not be a self-fulfilling prophecy when they improve self-concept, drive out fear and embrace new challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, eliminate self-imposed limitations and cease dependence on others to provide validity. 

The various voices in this book candidly and sincerely share their wisdom and belief that we can be an important part of society without blending in; that we can live with 100% authenticity, unlimited by labels; that we shouldn’t be expected to compromise our identity to find acceptance and everyone, regardless of sexuality or gender identity, has a right to fully live.

There is practical advice and guidance from the LGBT community on how life need not be pre-determined and that by recognising that our “truth” has been shaped through our relationships, our environment and our experiences, we can begin to change our perceptions, heighten our self-esteem and move toward our personal and professional goals with clear vision and purpose…. 

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What People are Saying about 
Never Blend In

There are two ways you can approach not fitting in. If you get to see it as a blessing, feeling like an Outsider can eventually give you the freedom and license to create your own world, follow your own goals, and make your own reality. I've always thought it must be a lot harder for those who effortlessly belong - how much stronger the temptation to just blend in and be a non-questioning sheep! Yes, there is pain. Feelings of rejection, confusion, self-doubt. But think of those negatives in a positive light: you have the chance to acquire resilience, fortitude, understanding and the realization but you have one life to live, so you absolutely have the right to live it your way! 

It's no shame to get help and inspiration from others, which is why David Watters 'Never Blend In’, is so timely.

TRISHA GODDARD, 
Television Presenter      

ALAN CUMMING OBE
Actor, Writer, Producer and Activist

On why he chose to be part of this book:

I think that out of everyone in society LGBT people, especially LGBT youth, are subjected to most negative energy and the most negative portrayals of themselves and so it’s really important for us as a community to give back and to let people see that the sun can shine 

PETER TATCHELL
Human Rights Campaigner


On why Never Blend In is important:

For young people coming to terms with their sexuality it’s really important that they have positive, high achieving role models as a way of boosting their self esteem and confidence. This kind of book shares the experience of a very diverse group of LGBT people. Individual and collective experience offers the inspiration and motivation for LGBT people to do something worthwhile with their lives and live their dream. 

STEPHEN FRY
Actor, Comedian, Writer


On the value of this book:

At all times, but especially as an adolescent you need to be told "You are not alone" - there is no more positive and euphoric feeling than the discovery that others, including people of courage, genius, insight, passion, talent and charm felt the kind of feelings you feel. Especially when society, religion and the world tell you that those feelings are wrong.
In the world of "Lost Hope", for the youth of the World this book stands as a beacon of light that others have travelled the road before. "Be true to yourself" & "Never Blend In".

These are the people who are not afraid of closed doors, untraveled paths, and at the end leaders into uncharted territory...Thank you for allowing us to tell our tale. I am and always have been comfortable in my own skin although I know it's not a suit most would choose to wear...Thanks for giving me the forum to express that. Best of Luck to you...(I know you don't need it) 

Liza Friedlander, President, Friedlander Investigative Services, LLC

Positive role models are important to individuals whether they be LGBT individuals talking about their experiences or the family and friends of such individuals who can model acceptance and positive affirmation. Therapists are likely to be interested in such a book in a bid to understand the specific needs of those who identify as LGBT considering the best ways to work with such individuals and/or their families. Academics are likely to find the book useful in considering issues around diversity and, of course, the general public will also benefit as a book of this sort educates the reader. This book will also help LGBT individuals to understand their situation and consider how to develop a deep and meaningful sense of self-worth. It will also help such individuals understand how best to help those around them to understand their situation as much as it will educate family and friends.

Gladeana McMahon, 
Director, Gladeana McMahon Associates

The book NEVER BLEND IN is a provocative look into the lives of successful people who live in a world where the odds are stacked against us. It is important to give hope to the younger generation with diverse sexual orientations to see that we can be happy, healthy, and successful players in this game we call life. I hope by telling my story in this book, I can, in some small way, make life easier for those who march to the beat of a different drum. I am a rebel with a cause...you can either march with me, or step out of my way.

I am excited to order several copies of your book and share them with friends and family as gifts. I may try to use it with one of my classes that I teach at my college on the psychology of diversity.    

Director of the Counseling Center and Professor at Franklin College of Indiana, President, Shafer Consulting Services

NEVER 🏳️‍🌈 BLEND 🏳️‍🌈 IN  NEWS




🏳️‍🌈 NEVER 
🏳️‍🌈 BLEND 
🏳️‍🌈 IN 
NEVER BLEND IN, and the efforts of writer David Watters, is a brilliant collection and resource of openly LGBT and successful role models across the globe. The value to all, especially for the younger generation, is paramount. The presentation of individuals who are successful, determined, active and visible in our communities will undoubtedly inspire all who read this collection, to do better, become a better person, and strive for greatness in their lives and that of others.  

The LGBT community has often been portrayed in a less than favourable light – NEVER BLEND IN rips that inaccurate veil off, and offers a face and portrait of today’s LGBT community, its leaders, history, accomplishments and potential.
 
Herb Sosa, Editor|Publisher - Ambiente Magazine 
& President - Unity Coalition|Coalicion Unida

NEVER BLEND IN is a vital project that is sure to make a difference in many young (and not so young!) lives. As the author of HEATHER HAS TWO MOMMIES, I have seen firsthand how important it is for children to see a family like theirs portrayed in the media. It is just as important for teenagers and adults to see themselves represented in books, in film, and on TV.

By showcasing people who are out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender and living authentic lives, David Watters is sending an important message to those struggling to come out and be out: You CAN be yourself and live a full, satisfying, meaningful, and glorious life.

Lesléa Newman

This book is crucially important because we need to continually shed light on the struggles and adversity facing the LGBT community.

We can never become complacent in our fight for equal rights and we need to remember the trailblazers who ignited the spark for the flame of progress that burns today.

As role models following in the legacy of others like Harvey Milk, we need to stand as proud confident people and continue to broaden the path of acceptance for those that follow us.  

Jack Mackenroth
Swimmer, model and fashion designer who competed in the fourth season of American reality show Project Runway. 

David Watters is a highly motivated author and freelance writer. He is passionate in his work, inspiring others to become their best selves, and to value themselves and others. His considerable writing skills help create and promote inclusivity and equality for all people, and offers another positive role model for youth and others on the margins.

Rev. David Weekley, Minister, United Methodist Church

YOUR QUOTE HERE:

Tuesday, February 3, 2015 – “David has been a shining example of hard WORK, compassion, love and caring, not only for the lgbt community, but for all individuals who feel discriminated against and alone. He reaches out across the world to make a difference. He is inspiration personified!”

Wednesday, March 18, 2015 – “David Watters is an incredible man and leader within the LGBT community not just in the UK but his influence is felt strongly around the world. He has touched many a soul with his wisdom and deep abiding compassion for all. I am an administer on his Facebook group Give’Em Hope Campaign. 

I could not ask for a more supportive fellow in a partner…even if I am across the Pond and on the other side of the United States. He’s a hero.”

Sunday, March 15, 2015 – “I think David is an inspiration for people from all walks of life. He has been a lifeline for many and helped many more.”

Thursday, March 12, 2015 – “Mr Watters provides a comfortable appeal and when he speaks, he appears at ease. This makes it a delight to hear him speak on what ever matter is at hand.”

Thursday, March 12, 2015 – ” DAVID E WATTERS, is a teacher, motivational speaker and writer; a passionate equality advocate, committed to enhancing the lives of young people and adults who may feel marginalised or limited by labels. He is director of NBI Associates, an inclusion-focussed specialist training company with a reputation for providing organisations with the tools to achieve meaningful and lasting cultural change.“

Thursday, March 12, 2015 – “David is courageous and hero, a real role model and advocate for many.”

Thursday, March 12, 2015 – “David has improved the lives and self esteem of so many individuals both through his “Give ‘Em Hope” campaign and his professional role as a teacher where he constantly promotes equality and diversity in the workplace. “

Friday, March 6, 2015 – “For his tireless WORK with multiple organizations, his neverending passion to educate, inspire and enlighten communities. “

Monday, March 2, 2015 – “A true inspiration to all!”

Saturday, February 28, 2015 – “David was my teacher for a couple of years at stagecoach theatre school andover. He was an amazing teacher always encouraging everyone to be themselves and not listen to criticism from others. He always gave everyone a fair chance and was very welcoming. “

Saturday, February 28, 2015 – “David has a wonderful sense of dedicated to his WORK within equality for all. Man who has inspired me to reach my goals, and many more. David has a wonderful way with people, in my opinion this award should be known as the David E. Watters Award. “

Monday, February 23, 2015 – “David is a kind and gentle man who gives of his time freely. He is generous in spirit and a great listener encouraging others to grow in themselves and live their life authentically while acknowledging the obstacles and challenges that they face.”

Sunday, February 22, 2015 – “he is a great guy, always giving back, making a difference.. “

Wednesday, February 18, 2015 – “I’ve known David for over 20 years. He is among the most sincere, loyal and loving people I have ever met. He is somebody you can count on; he doesn’t lie or pretend to be somebody that he isn’t. He is humble and modest and never considers himself above another human being. He shows empathy and compassion and inspires trust. When I think of 

David, I am inspired with a great feeling of love. And he has a good sense of humour, no matter the adversities that he has had to face in his own life, he has a good sense of humour. He knows how to be human and understands that we all are human too… All of that for me, is what makes him one of the best positive role models who I know. Sincerely, Rachel Norwood”

Tuesday, February 17, 2015 – “Never blend is a superb project “

Sunday, February 15, 2015 – “I was approached by David to be part of his Never Blend In book and talk about my experiences from being from a small town to moving to a big city and especially changing attitudes within a Transport related organisation. As a trustee of 17-24-30 I approached David about speaking at one of our Hate Crime Vigils as I was impressed by his professionalism and tenacity and I know that he is a very inspirational speaker. His Give Em Hope campaign is fantastic and I was particularly pleased when I was invited to provide a video for the campaign and also wha the campaigns aspirations are. David has WORKED tirelessly to support, develop and profile issues for all diversity groups. Whilst saying David is a people person may sound cliche’d its true, his personal manner, solutions based approach to issues and how creative these can be, make him a perfect choice for this award. He treats people with respect and is a pleasure to work alongside. He is professional and knowledgeable whilst striking a balance of friendliness and good humour into the mix. He has presence and speaks with authority and commands respect from his peers. A positive role model who models best practice in terms of if he says he is going to do it, he does it! Just look at the Give Em Hope Campaign and the Never Blend In Book as two examples of this. He will always do all in his power to make good on a promise. He is generous with all of the previous mentioned and his time and this strong work ethic is what allows him to deliver what he sets out to do! David is a pleasure to work with and I am glad that I can call him a friend and am honoured to know him. He is truly deserving of a role model award. “

Sunday, February 15, 2015 – “His WORK is so important to LGBT youth. We need more people like him. He should be recognized for his outstanding WORK.”

Sunday, February 15, 2015 – “Tirelessness, Humor, and Acceptance. Never why … always why not.”

Saturday, February 14, 2015 – “David Waters is an inspirational man. He cares deeply about diversity and has been the driving force in building a supportive OFFERING for LGBT individuals. He has made a difference to many.”

Friday, February 13, 2015 – “I don’t actually know Mr Watters personally, but I follow his Give ‘Em Hope page on FB and am just always impressed with his constant positive presence and unflagging encouragement and support. “

Thursday, February 12, 2015 – “Could say a lot about David, about all the years i know him and see, what amazing work he do, he's a social Role Model in many ways.He is it at his JOB, for many many young people, his partnership and for example Never Blend In and Give ém hope campain.I am so proud to know him and follow him since years on fb. 

He taught me a lot about equality, patience, friendship and what family is meant to be.”

Wednesday, February 11, 2015 – “David deserves to get an award in his own right he did receive and award last year for the Give em Hope Campaign. 

But this is just the tip of the iceberg of who David is and stands for weather its in his work as a teacher or his book or the campaign or his home life David never stops promoting equality and this is for everyone not only the LGBT community but EVERYONE. He wont stop he is so passionate on this subject he is a great role model to me and many other people. 

David to me is a positive role model in the LGBT community and beyond. He is nurturing supportive and a very positive person he does not discriminate in anyway. His role in the Give em hope campaign is evidence in its self for the good work he does but I feel he deserves an award in his own right.”

Monday, February 9, 2015 – “From the moment I read David Watters' words on a Face Book post, I knew he would be a force to be reckoned with. His continuous support and encouragement is evident on his public pages, and in his private notes. David chooses to share most of his daily life with us and by doing so shows that he faces the same struggles we do. From a terrible commute, to a head cold and through to an equality march; his charm, charisma and true gift of belief that there is a place for everyone, David is the man I would love for our children to emulate. He truly is the example of “practice what you preach” 

All of us can learn from the glimpse into his life he offers daily. For our family, David has been a source of both information and inspiration. He has offered encouragement, support and advice to our daughter with her writing and has been an unending blessing to my husband and I as we learn to deal with our uniquely gifted son. Knowing that David is willing to provide so much of himself to those who need him is a comfort that almost cannot be described. Would that there were more men and women like him! 

If I were to choose someone to emulate, it would be David Watters, I try each day to recall something he has said and work to live out that truth.. Thank you 

David, for all you have done and continue to do in order to Give ‘Em Hope! “

Sunday, February 8, 2015 – “David Watters is the most engaging person I know on FB. He seems to just bubble over with kind words, encouraging thoughts and seems to always think of the other person first. I know I always feel better after having a chat with David.”

Sunday, February 8, 2015 – “The sheer amount of work and time David has committed to achieving LGBT equality is staggering. I fully supported the Equal Love campaign in its efforts to achieve same sex-marriage, and David’s hard work no doubt contributed to this success. I’ve never been someone who’s afraid of being different – I’ve been proud of it, in fact – but many do and I can’t stress enough the value of that message – what David is doing by spreading it to people across the country, young and old, is of vital importance. The particular educational focus of David’s work is the key reason I’m voting for him above others. Sex education at my schools – primary and secondary – were awful when it came to LGBT matters. There was brief reference to gay sex in the form of warning men how they might be raped; there was nothing about consensual relationships, and no mention of lesbian, bisexual or transgender sex/relationships whatsoever! I am determined that the next generation receive a far better education, and David is contributing to this. I’m only too pleased to give him my vote.”

Saturday, February 7, 2015 – “Read his bio – David tells us what we need to know. He is the knowledgeable fellow when it comes to knowing about living as a gay man. Simply live as a man and the gay part will take care of itself. Your family giving you difficulties because if your “gayness”? 

David can help you either get them on your side or learn to live with them as they are. (wishing I could come up with more words to help David – I just can’t seem to find the words to tell people about my friend, David!)”

Saturday, February 7, 2015 – “David Watters is a selfless advocate for transgender rights, and safety.”

Thursday, February 5, 2015 – “David has such passion for breaking down the barriers that exist within society – not just actual barriers but perceived ones as well. He is supportive, caring and friendly but also driven to face up to inequality of opportunity.I’m not sure if he knows this, but he was rather influential in my decision to come out as openly transgender, and at one level that decision changed my life, and at another it didn’t change it at all!I believe that David realises what many people in my situation don’t – that labels that stereotype people are psychologically damaging and unhealthy, and serve no purpose. The real thing is that sometimes the fear that arises from being labelled as something can be debilitating for the individual. David helped me break through that fear and after OPENING up to one and all about my need to live as a woman, I found that the wider community was very accepting; up to that point I had been afraid for over 40 years of not being accepted.David is a groundbreaking individual who really does believe in the person, not how they’ve been labelled by others. The time and effort that he puts into his equality programmes is amazing, and he single-handedly raises awareness of diversity and equality issues to a wider public.”

Thursday, February 5, 2015 – “David has a heart of GOLD and wants only good for those he supports and makes contact with. He is passionate about diversity and equality.”

Thursday, February 5, 2015 – “David has proved himself to be a role model to many diverse groups of people but his actions, not just spoken words. He gives his whole heart and spirit to help and to EDUCATE the world about equality,love, kindness, respect. In his efforts to follow in the footsteps of such great leaders as Harvey Milk and MLK,Jr., He shines above all by unselfishly giving hope to anyone who feels hopeless and alone. If anyone deserves this award, he certainly does!”

Thursday, February 5, 2015 – “The concise version of my reason for voting for David, he is a positive role model. If I have to elaborate, amongst his many personal traits he is, modest, patient, and caring. He also possesses the ability to listen to and communicate with people from all backgrounds and walks of live. He is an all round great guy and in my humble opinion I can not think of anyone who deserves the award more than him.”

Thursday, February 5, 2015 – “Nominating Mr. Watters because of the WORK he does in several Facebook and other web pages. Seems like everyday I find another page he’s done, where he’s helped another person, usually a young man or woman who couldn’t go home. Even if they believe in themselves, the rest of the family doesn’t believe in them.”

Wednesday, February 4, 2015 – “David is quite simply one of the most inspirational people I have ever met. He is a superb teacher, not only for his subject knowledge, but for his care and passion and his extraordinary ability to WORK with some incredibly judgemental children! Not only that, but his tireless work with Never Blend In and Give ‘Em Hope has given so much hope and support to people – and perhaps more importantly, a voice that they recognise to realise that they are not alone and that even if they cannot find support within their own lives, there is still support out there for them.”

Wednesday, February 4, 2015 – “Pioneer in International LGBT Social Media collectives. #NeverBlendIn”

Wednesday, February 4, 2015 – “Though I have never met David in person, and he is “just” a Facebook friend, he has had a profound influence on my life and the way I perceive people and situations.”

Tuesday, February 3, 2015 – “David E. Watters speaks out on issues that others would prefer not to hear about. In spite of his rigorous work routine, he continues to support those who are different and down-trodden in our modern society. In an age where civil partnerships and gay marriage are widely accepted by most of society, many of those who these modern day institutions were designed to help find themselves marginalised by their own fears of being different. David reaches out to these people, he makes them believe in themselves as individuals, which is a wonderful achievement in itself. I believe that David knows his work will never be finished, that he must plough on helping every new and disenchanted, disillusioned, and disenfranchised soul that he comes across, in the hope of giving them a clearer and happier path forward to a complete and individual life.” 
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