04/05/2020 | Writer: Kaos GL
An interview with A Queen Behind Bars: To be able to live a fulfilling life true to my real emotions and identity; not as someone whom society wants me to be.
Would you like to tell us about the LGBTI movement in Iraq?
Being an LGBT in Iraq means suffering from society and family. It also means suffering from oneself. It is because you are not allowed to be who you are in society. That is the life for an LGBTI in Iraq. Recently, LGBTI people from all walks of life, be it engineers, pharmacists or dentists, are planning to leave the country since life in every aspect is very difficult for them. It is because society won’t accept them. There are not any opportunities to socialize in Iraq.
What do you suggest for fostering solidarity between Turkish LGBTIs and LGBTI Refugees?
Language is the most important factor that can foster solidarity. If you speak a little Turkish and a little English, you can have a dialogue with LGBTIs in Turkey but both sides need to make an effort. I have also started socializing with a Turkish LGBTI person. I have suggested that we come together because there is a valuable contribution each LGBTI could make to one another. Showing society that we have a close connection with science and the arts would help create a positive image for LGBTI people.
What kind of world do you imagine for LGBTI people?
My biggest dream is to continue my education. And of course, to be able to live a fulfilling life true to my real emotions and identity; not as someone whom society wants me to be. To be able to live without having to change my words, the way I look and feel. Also, to live in a peaceful environment and country, not somewhere I have to live in fear and under threat. In short, my dream for all LGBTI people is that society will accept us as who we are.
*This article was first published in "Rainbow Knows No Borders", the special issue of Kaos GL Magazine prepared with the contributions of LGBTI+ refugees living in Turkey.
Tags: human rights, life
