BREAKING THE SILENCE “I’m a lesbian girl. I live with my family. The truth is that things are going well around here, although I have to admit that having to study a lot is very overwhelming and sometimes I don’t do it (I haven’t done it in 3 weeks). There are days when I fight with my family, especially my father, about my way of thinking and, of course, about my sexuality. He does make some very misogynistic and homophobic comments. I’m out of the closet, so yes, he does make those comments intentionally, but I don’t let him ruin my days. I hope you all feel good and are staying at home. Your friend sends you good vibes.” Anonymous, Mexico City, Mexico
“Because of the pandemic, I’ve been separated from my girlfriend for two months. We contact each other regularly, but I miss having her next to me. Yet I don’t despair. I know I will see her when the lockdown is lifted. Plus, she’s planning to come out to her parents after the lockdown. It’s a moment that scares her, but it’s a moment she really needs. And I’m proud of her because she’s taking the courage to be herself with her family. I also plan to invite her to see my parents after the lockdown. My parents know I’m a lesbian and they accept me the way I am. No one can imagine how reassuring it is for a child to have their parents by their side when they realize they are gay. I’m happy, I’m free to be myself, and I know that one day my girlfriend will be too.
“Hi, I’m Sebastián, I’m 32 years old, I’m gay and I live in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The quarantine caught me without a job. In January, I stopped working where I was working before, what seemed like an opportunity because I was going to move to Europe. It became a problem when all the borders were closed. I am living on my unemployment insurance and my savings, but at the same time I am super grateful and aware that I am a privileged person who has a roof over their head and can cover all their basic needs to live. I miss my family a lot. Even though they are in the same city where I live I haven’t seen them since the beginning of March. I miss my friends. I miss real contact.” Sebastián, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Mag 4
I want to send a message of hope and positivity to the young LGBT people who read my message, and who, perhaps, have just discovered themselves. Know that being yourself is the most beautiful thing that life can offer you. It is hard to love in this world for people like us. But, I assure you, it’s worth it! And even if you’re scared, even if you’re lonely, I promise you, someday you’ll be happy.” Justine, France
“The greatest anxiety is not having to stay at home, but staying in a house that I don’t love, in a town that I don’t love, and the ambulance sirens blaring right outside my house. The greatest burden is having to share this house with my parents, not so much for my mother, but certainly it is very hard having to put up with my father. A father who has no respect for me and shows it as soon as he gets the chance.” Mara, Bergamo, Italy
