My parents know I’m gay, and they find it difficult to deal with. I understand where they are coming from, I know how they were raised. I have a strong love for my parents, even if it means I cannot entirely be myself around them. This may sound tragic, but this is how loyal I feel towards them.
When I was 19, I ran away from home. At the time it seemed like the only option I had. I left my community and village, without any regrets. I could not fully develop in a village like that, I needed to be in a city where diversity can be celebrated. My professional life, my friends, and my activism shaped me into the person I am today. I no longer feel any headwind when I’m living my life in big cities.
I cannot force people to be understanding and empathic, but my question to them would be: why couldn’t there be more realities than just your own, and what is it that you are afraid of? To people who find themselves in my situation, I’d say: educate yourself, ask questions and refuse to be dehumanized.
The people portrayed as invisible in the IN/VISIBLE photo-exhibit are regular participants of Wereldcafé. Wereldcafé is a monthly activity organized by COC Amsterdam en omstreken, where bicultural LGBTIQ+ persons can meet in a closed setting to find a social network and discuss topics relevant to their personal empowerment. If you come from a bicultural background and are LGBTIQ+ or questioning, and want to be in contact with likeminded people, you can contact us at: wereldcafe@cocamsterdam.nl. We look forward to meeting you.