Joining a new group, introducing yourself and trying to put fear aside is not easy for LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers. Whenever new people arrive at our Nido meetings, or if there are people who have just begun attending, the fear is invariably that we might make missteps, appear less than perfect, nip things in the bud and so on. But the group serves to create a safe space, give support and comfort, so when things are going more or less well, we breathe a sigh of relief.
A few days ago, for example, we welcomed Khan. Despite initial language difficulties, by the second meeting someone who could speak Urdu arrived and it was much easier to communicate and understand each other. Fortunately, the automatic Italian/Urdu translator we used at the first meeting worked just fine (the Urdu/Italian one was rather disappointing!).
In the last meeting we welcomed Tison (who is from Arcore), and Simon returned for the second time. Simon has been in Italy since February this year, Tison since November, Khan since October. What they have in common are bad stories of violence, torture, suffering,… and of boyfriends they never heard from again when they were left behind, or who update them on how much they are still suffering in the countries from which they could not flee.
One other thing they have in common, too, is a great need to no longer feel alone, to rebuild their lives and release their emotions, as their wounds (physical and emotional) are very new indeed. And it is good to know that we can support them at least a little to pave the way for new acquaintances and opportunities in Italy.
The last meeting was also attended by Rahim, the Nepalese FTM boy we have known for some time. He helps us with Urdu speakers. Thanks to him, Tison and Khan heard the word ‘transgender’ for the first time and listened to the story of a gender identity situation. At the end of the meeting, they all seemed happy to have come and having shared time together. It’s very rewarding: when we finish the meetings, we are really excited and happy, even though dealing with people who have just arrived in Italy is always a major responsibility. We really hope to be up to the task and support them in the best possible way.
If you have any question, you can write an email to piacenza@ilgrandecolibri.com
The answers will be published on the Nido del Colibrì page!
translation by Antonio Pauletta
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