Chattanooga Football Club is proud to recognize Brandon Carruth, Owner of Sleepyhead Coffee.
Brandon Carruth has known the Tennessee-Georgia border his entire life. It was here where he learned the impact that a cafe can have on a community. As soon as the Trenton, Georgia-native fell in love with the relationships fostered in a coffee shop, the dream of Sleepyhead Coffee was born.
"I have always had an entrepreneurial and creative mindset, so owning a business was something I knew I wanted to do. A welcoming safe space in the city was needed, thus Sleepyhead Coffee was born with the help of my business partner, Christian."
How to Support Pride
Supporting pride is more than just being an ally. For Carruth, he makes an effort to actively help organizations that directly support the LGBTQ+ community.
"I and Sleepyhead Coffee have donated to Cempa Community Care, originally organized by citizens to support and advocate for local residents impacted by HIV."
Cempa, Chattanooga’s local care group for the LGBTQ+ community and those affected by HIV and AIDS, is not the only group Carruth supports. He goes national as well by donating to the Trevor Project.
It’s no secret that Tennessee and Pride have a difficult history. Carruth identifies Chattanooga’s acceptance as a glimmer of hope toward the future.
"Chattanooga feels like a secret escape from the rest of Tennessee. To me the work needed is statewide, which is why voting is important!"
What Pride Can Mean
Pride is celebrating growth of a movement, a community and for Carruth, himself. Many young people struggle with their sexualities, but Carruth has grown into more than his past insecurities.
"When I accepted my sexuality, I first felt uncomfortable and in denial. I was embarrassed by the question, 'Are you gay?' Being called 'gay' when I was young felt like an insult. You were made fun of for being gay. I can say that I now accept and love myself, and I'm proud of who I am."
Part of growth, particularly in Pride, is moving forward. Progressivity is not passive' it is active support. As a small business owner, Carruth shows his support through Sleepyhead Coffee.
"I think it’s important for local businesses to be open about their acceptance. I honestly think people should be less opinionated on things that don’t involve them. Additionally, if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all. That's a motto we've all heard our entire lifetimes and it’s something we as adults need to remember."
