Sal’s Story: undeterred, From Karachi to Boston: A Journey of Resilience and Activism
Sal's journey challenges America's 'melting pot' narrative, revealing nuanced battles for acceptance and identity faced by LGBTQ immigrants.
Sal Khan shares their journey as a child of partition, navigating the complexities of belonging, trauma, and self-discovery. As a secular Buddhist and nature worshipper, Sal finds solace in their spiritual beliefs amidst struggles with PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Their story sheds light on the intersectionality of identity and the ongoing battle for acceptance.
Youssef's Story: Bravely Charting His Course Forward; From Lebanon to Finding Myself.
Youssef Saleh grew up in the breathtaking landscapes between the Mediterranean and the Lebanese mountains. In America, he finds himself in calmer, but picturesque surroundings, with a community that embraces him.
It didn’t take Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” for Youssef Salah to know he was different, but hearing her lyrics gave him the words to explain himself.
Noni’s Story: Navigating identity, and Artistry from Nigeria to New York
Noni Salma's journey away from Lagos is a tapestry woven with many threads of identity. Now living in New York City as a trans woman and an immigrant from Nigeria, her story has unfolded as a quest for a home — both within herself and in a new land.
Noni's story is a love letter to New York. She lightheartedly suggests that she might even be a perfect fit for "I Love New York" ads, embodying the diverse spirit of the city she now calls home.
Pasha’s Story: Navigating Strife, Love, and Resilience from Kyrgyzstan to San Francisco
Pasha came from Kyrgyzstan. Political and family homophobia meant Pasha left his home. After the State Committee for National Security service put an intimate blackmail video on social media, Pasha and partner left for Kazakhstan.
“We applied for help from multiple agencies, even the UN bodies, but no one was able to help. It felt as if the whole world left us alone while crumbling apart on its own.” - Pasha
They are still finding their way in America.