Teacher, Bestselling Author & LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate
Teacher, Bestselling Author & LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate
Chasten Buttigieg, the husband of author and politician Pete Buttigieg, has become a popular figure in his own right. The teacher's wit, intimate social media musings, and polished speeches have prompted glowing media coverage and declarations that he "won the 2020 spouse primary."
As his husband launched a campaign that made him one of the most talked-about Democrats in the 2020 race, Chasten leveraged his own platform to bring attention to improving public schools, access to arts education, and mental healthcare. He has also been vocal online in his criticism of the recent rise in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation sweeping the country, and its damaging effects on families, schools, and communities, especially the mental health of LGBTQ+ youth.
Chasten published the New York Times bestselling book, I Have Something to Tell You, in which he recounts his journey to finding acceptance as a gay man. The moving, uplifting memoir shares details of his life story including bullying, estrangement, homelessness, and sexual assault.
Chasten comes across many people who have felt supported and loved by his continued message: "You belong. You are loved. You are welcome here."
Growing up, Chasten Buttigieg didn’t always fit in. He felt different from his father and brothers and out of place in the rural, conservative small town where he lived. Back then, blending in was more important than feeling seen. So, when Chasten realized he was gay, he kept that part of himself hidden away for a long, painful time.
With incredible bravery, and the support of his loved ones, Chasten eventually came out—and when he did, he learned that being true to himself was the most rewarding journey of all. With honesty, courage, and warmth, Chasten relays his experience of growing up in America and embracing his identity, while inspiring young people across the country to do the same.