This week we’d like to bring you G.’s story. G. is a youth in one of our centers:
“A few weeks ago, as part of a new project at the center where youth and volunteers share meaningful personal stories, I told my own story for the first time. The story of a gay youth who was in the closet, and the process I’ve been through, and am still going through to this day.
It was the first time I opened up about it all and shared with my friends at the center, and even some of the staff. I’ve decided it was the right thing for me to do, especially if it can make a difference and help other youth around me. I knew that talking about it would make the center feel like a safe space, where one can talk about anything.
The positive feedback made me very happy, especially the reactions from the youth at the center. They were all respectful, they listened, showed interest, and asked questions that felt appropriate and not intrusive. It seemed like they were very invested and accepted me completely, for who I am.
After the talk, some of them felt comfortable enough to continue the conversation in private. I hope that the fact that it came from someone they know at the center, meant that sexual identity will become something we all feel comfortable and natural discussing in a mature way.
I’m so glad I decided to stand up, speak up, share my story and by doing so, sharing and promoting the important stories of so many others.”
Happy pride, everyone!
