Labasa's Gay Community Creates Own Space, House Of Colours

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex (LGBTQI) members in Labasa have created their own safe space to avoid being criticised and discriminated.

Despite the current hardship, they say people’s mindset towards them hasn’t changed.

House of Colours member Cleo Petra said they struggled to make a living and at the same time be accepted in the community.

“There are about 15 LGBTQI in Labasa who have openly accepted who they are and work in different sectors,” Ms Petra said.

“Majority of us work for humanitarian projects as volunteers.”

She revealed many of their members avoided being in public places because they feared for their safety – both physically and emotionally.

Hence, the House of Colours was their solace from it all where they could openly express themselves and discussed issues close to their heart.

“With the theme of International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, breaking the silence, we urge people to see us as human beings and accept the way we are,” she said.

“It is okay to say hi instead of making your own assumption based on our expression when you see us.

“Every individual has their own story.”

She explained that when they sensed that people don’t accept them with the way they dressed or looked, they avoided being around them.

Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

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