The desire to know ourselves is so strong when we’re kids, but it’s tough because there aren’t many resources out there. No one talks about “that thing,” and the media often ignores it. You can feel incredibly lonely, as if you’re the only person in the entire city experiencing these feelings. It takes a long time to find someone like you as you grow up. Being religious can make it even harder, forcing you to hide not only from others but also from the Creator.

That’s why I’m so proud of today’s youth. Now, if they search for “lesbian” or “gay” in Amharic, they can find a ton of information created by people like us. Even in rural areas, queer communities can access content on social media. A queer woman looking to understand herself can read stories that reflect her journey and help her learn from others. Sure, social media can be a breeding ground for hate, but it has also made self-discovery easier for new generations. It’s not just about knowing others; it’s about building friendships, love, and a sense of community.

We’ve also learned from queer people in the church that it’s possible to embrace different faiths. It can be scary to see “that thing” talked about everywhere, but I believe it’s part of a bigger change. It might seem like nothing is shifting, but change is happening. Aren’t we winning by living our truth?