Picture a resilient storyteller who turned tragedy into a powerful call for change—meet Brandon J. Wolf! A survivor of the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting, Wolf is an acclaimed author, activist, and National Press Secretary for the Human Rights Campaign. His memoir, A Place for Us, weaves personal grief with a vibrant push for LGBTQ+ civil rights and gun-safety reform, captivating readers with its raw honesty and hope.
Born in Portland, Oregon, Wolf’s journey from a queer, Black kid in a conservative town to a national advocate is nothing short of inspiring. His writing, laced with vulnerability and purpose, resonates with anyone seeking belonging in a divided world. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this dynamic changemaker!
The Making of Brandon J. Wolf
Growing up in rural Oregon, Wolf faced the challenges of being a queer, mixed-race youth in a predominantly white, conservative community. The loss of his mother to cancer at a young age left a profound mark, shaping his search for connection and safety. After moving to Orlando at 19 for the Disney College Program, he found a vibrant community at Pulse nightclub, a haven where he could be his authentic self. The tragic shooting in 2016, which claimed 49 lives, including his best friends Drew Leinonen and Juan Guerrero, propelled Wolf into activism, transforming his pain into a mission for change.
Brandon J. Wolf’s Unforgettable Stories
Wolf’s debut memoir, A Place for Us, published in July 2023, is a heartfelt exploration of grief, identity, and resilience. The book traces his journey from childhood struggles to finding chosen family in Orlando, only to face unimaginable loss at Pulse. Written with raw candor, it’s both a personal healing process and a universal call to build inclusive communities. The memoir became an instant bestseller and a finalist for the 2024 Audie Award for Best Autobiography/Memoir.
Beyond his book, Wolf’s writing shines in opinion pieces for outlets like CNN, Oprah Daily, USA Today, and Newsweek. His style blends vivid storytelling with sharp advocacy, urging readers to confront issues like gun violence and LGBTQ+ discrimination. Whether recounting the smell of gun smoke at Pulse or celebrating the power of chosen family, Wolf’s words are a rallying cry for hope and action. His speeches, delivered at events like Netroots Nation and NYC Pride, carry the same emotional weight, making him a sought-after voice in activism.
Why Brandon J. Wolf Matters
Wolf’s impact extends far beyond the page. As National Press Secretary for the Human Rights Campaign, he amplifies marginalized voices, fighting for policies that protect LGBTQ+ rights and curb gun violence. His co-founding of The Dru Project, which has awarded over $250,000 in scholarships to LGBTQ+ youth, honors his late friend Drew’s dream of safe spaces. Wolf’s testimony before Congress in 2019, the first by a Pulse survivor, humanized the toll of gun violence, influencing national discourse. Recognized by HuffPost as one of “30 modern-day LGBTQ pioneers,” his work inspires a generation to turn pain into purpose.
- Born: Portland, Oregon
- Key Work: A Place for Us: A Memoir (2023)
- Awards: Finalist, 2024 Audie Award for Best Autobiography/Memoir
- Fun Fact: Wolf was a national surrogate for Senator Elizabeth Warren’s 2019 presidential campaign.
Ready to be inspired? Grab A Place for Us and dive into Brandon J. Wolf’s powerful blend of storytelling and activism!