Max Disposti: Honored for LGBTQIA+ and Latinx Advocacy

By Cesar A Reyes

As the Executive Director of the North County LGBTQ Resource Center and a lifelong advocate for social justice and human rights, Max Disposti has dedicated his work to empowering marginalized communities, especially LGBTQIA+ and Latinx individuals. This year, Max is being recognized as one of VIDA’s Community Honorees at the annual Scholarship Luncheon, a celebration of Latinx leadership and the power of education.

Reflecting on the honor, Max shares, “As an immigrant to this country, I feel deeply honored to have earned the trust of a community I consider family. In a time when our Latinx community is often criminalized in the media and by political rhetoric, building solidarity and allyship is more important than ever, especially for my queer Latinx siblings, with whom I share not only common experiences but also a vision for a more inclusive future.”

The VIDA Scholarship Luncheon awards scholarships to LGBTQIA+ Latinx students, many of whom face systemic barriers to higher education and representation. “Scholarships like these are more than financial support,” Max explains. “They are a symbol of hope and belonging. Every dollar tells a young person: You matter. This community sees you, loves you, and wants you to succeed.”

When asked what The WORD for him would be Max responded “The WORD is Cultural Resilience. It is the strength to survive and thrive despite the odds by drawing on the traditions, wisdom, and enduring spirit of our native ancestors. It is about honoring where we come from while using that deep-rooted resilience to move forward and create space for ourselves in today’s world.”

In honoring Max Disposti, VIDA recognizes not just a leader, but a voice for those too often unheard—someone who embodies resilience, community love, and the unwavering pursuit of equity.