By: Olive Okoro
Pronouns (She/They)
New York City, NY, USA
“To give presence to queer Africans and let people know that we are here and making actionable change in the world!”
My Story
I am a Nigerian lesbian who grew up in Texas and received both my BA and MS in Economics with a minor in sociology.
I came out to my mom during a family discussion when i was around 19 but I always knew I liked women since I was 6 years old. I told her I was bi then started exclusively bringing women home and later (never really came out) but repeatedly reminded them I am a lesbian.
Finding Community
Honestly? Every gay person that has ever posted their own queer experience on the internet is the reason I am the way I am today. I never felt shame for liking girls nor for how I express my sexuality because of the overwhelming amount of unfiltered access to the internet I had as a child. I was introduced to queer people, two-spirit people, historical importance of queer identity from so many different cultures from the age of 8 which I am very grateful for.
Creating Visibility
To give presence to queer Africans and let people know that we are here and making actionable change in the world! I also love the mission of highlighting queer voices in any way possible!
Breaking Assumptions
I have no idea! I believe how I present myself online and to the world is who I am at a macro level and no one has ever told me an assumption about myself that I did not give them evidence to support.
Looking Ahead
African people from all walks of life and specifically those within African nations. I want to know their experiences, they cultures, their ways of thinking.
Connect
