My name is Ibrahim from Africa. I flew from my own country seventeen years ago to save my life as a gay man. My own family attacked me and threatened me with death due to my sexual orientation. I was abused, beaten, and they called me infidel, outcast, and said that hellfire will burn me because I am homosexual.
Nobody in my family will talk to me or share a cup with me as a result of my sexual orientation. They even reported me to the local police, as being gay can attract ten years’ imprisonment. Besides that, it was also reported to the local chief that I am practising and promoting Western culture. My action has brought shame to the family. One is not even allowed to rent a house across the country, as homophobic attacks are widespread. I had no choice but to leave the country with the help of my gay partner, who is British. I had to leave everything behind just to save my life, even though I am open about my sexuality in the UK and stayed with my partner for many years.
Life became rough in the UK when I separated from my partner. I became homeless, sleeping on the street without a shower, or food to eat, until I met a guy who said he would help me get a document to work. I secured a job at a food factory and, as a result, I was able to rent accommodation until a team of police and immigration officers raided my workplace and arrested me for illegal working. I was sentenced to ten months’ imprisonment and afterwards was sent to an immigration centre in Lincoln, awaiting deportation. This led to complicated health issues including traumatic stress, panic attacks, flashbacks and depression. It was quite challenging and frustrating when the Home Office refused my asylum claim, not believing I am gay. This led to more depression and thoughts of suicide all the time.
Thank you to West Yorkshire Queer Stories which restored my hope and aspiration by taking the time to listen to me. They give me a voice and have allowed me to use their platform. I know there are many guys out there with a similar situation.
You can listen to Ibrahim telling his story in his full interview.
