A unique cryptocurrency is working to become a world currency for the LGBT community: PROUD Money. In this interview we get to know the man behind the project, George Lawin, a passionate activist who has been working with crypto since 2011.
How did you first get involved with cryptocurrency?
I always wanted to do something for the LGBT community, given my personal experience as a gay man in Europe in the 80s, when homosexuality was still illegal and actively prosecuted. Like many of us, I experienced first handedly many homophobic attacks. Back in those days, people saw the gay community as worse than thieves.
In 2011 I came across Bitcoin and I got excited by the idea of an encoded currency. The freedom, simplicity of usage and specially the anonymity made a big impression on me. Even 8 years ago the LGBT community had to hide all aspects of our lives. The prospect of an economic tool where the community can freely exercise our purchasing power was incredible.
Was your motivation always to create a cryptocurrency that gave back to the LGBT community? What was your intention with GAYcoin in 2014?
I am motivated to give back and pave the way forward so that future generations never face the discrimination and persecution we did and still do. My vision is to offer quick and cheap transactions worldwide, 24/7 with a particular focus on freedom. In the financial world this means the absence of an authority with absolute power over deposits. We believe the banking system of the 21st Century is outdated, expensive and poses significant barriers of entry to marginalized communities. PROUD zeros in on this niche and uses the power of the financial system to the benefit of the LGBT society.
How has PROUD Money evolved since its inception - in terms of popularity, mission and as a business overall?
The rebranding of GAY Money into PROUD Money was essential to our evolution, to showcase our values of inclusivity and diversity. There are many cryptocurrencies, but PROUD has a purpose beyond monetary reasons. My vision has always been to build a full service digital financial services industry for the modern LGBT community.
In terms of popularity, well, popularity is a strong word considering that in many countries marriage equality is still a dream. I experience insulting and offensive comments on forums and in social media on daily basis. Seeing it on the bright side one could argue that 20 years ago the community experienced attacks upfront and personally whereas now the violence mainly online.
I hired a new team in 2018 to promote the company and in 6 short months we now have an active website, social media presence and partnership with SatoWallet and Airdrop. We’ve also seen a lot of interest in the form of interviews and sponsorships
Can you explain how the donation toward LGBT organizations will work? When will money start being given to organizations?
We are currently designing our donation program with the full launch intended for late 2018.The model is to donate all of the premind PROUD Money, which is 50% of the total supply to charities that support the LGBT communities through education, access to employment, change in legislation and lobbying activities. Our aim is for this process to remain for decades.
Have you identified any specific LGBT organizations that you want to donate to?
We would like to pay extra attention to the selection of charities to ensure resources go where they are needed. We have shortlisted charities that campaign for a fair and equal society aimed at meeting the needs of LGBT people.
In what ways will the LGBT community benefit from having a coin of its own?
We see the main benefit in providing support for decades. In addition, we are also preparing other projects which will be connected to PROUD Moneys mission. In the next few weeks we will introduce our new PROUD Dating App for web, Android and iOS where a majority of functions will be completely free. We also considering investing in a global LGBT companies with an option to accept PROUD Money as a payment option. PROUD is already prepared for a mass adoption.
Being a part of the early development in cryptocurrencies allows PROUD to build an infrastructure where LGBT rights are part of the framework. This is revolutionary and a chance to build something with a positive, long lasting impact.
What does PROUD Money have planned for the future?
We have many plans and ideas all in line with our mission and values. In addition to investment opportunities and Dating Apps, we will also introduce a PROUD Angel Program which focuses on educating the public about the LGBT community through the use of ambassadors, 'PROUD Angels', in their own country. We intend for PROUD Angels to help answer any questions potential users have of PROUD Money and promote awareness of why we need a cryptocurrency that advances our cause.
If you want to know more about PROUD, check out my article What is PROUD Money?