RUTH, 24
A Slytherin who is too gay to function.

What are some misconceptions about lesbians?
Who is the man and who is the lady? To be honest, there is no 'man', we are just women. Fair and equal.


Have you have personally faced discrimination? 
Yes. I got fired from my job before because of my sexual orientation. In college, I got a part-time job at a candy shop. I was three days in when I got a text from a new colleague at work informing me that I do not have to come in anymore. Confused, I asked her why. She told me that the boss does not like the way I dress and look because I am too 'gay'.


Has your orientation affected your life in anyway? 
Yes. I have come a long way fighting for myself mentally. I lost fake friends and I found love and happiness. I am stronger and happier every single day. Which makes people think that I am quite inspiring sometimes.


What was it like when you first came out?
I was waiting for the right time, and did not want to come out at first. I watched a lot of coming out videos on YouTube, wishing I could do the same. Finally, I came out to my cousin and I told her to keep between us. She did not. She threw me under the bus and told my parents. I had some really bad years, even until today, my relationship with my family is still very broken.


Do you have any advice on how to come out to your family?
Wait for the right time. You might not know how they would react. Doesn’t matter what the consequences will be, no matter bad or good, just be grateful and positive. Lastly, love yourself.

Is gay marriage important? Why should same sex marriage be legalised?
I do think gay marriage is important. It is important because love is involved. It is cruel to tear couples who love each other apart. It is sad that someone cannot achieve happiness for the rest of his/her life. It is just unfair. 


Do you believe that you were born this way? Or do you think people have a "choice" in the matter?
I am born this way. To be fair, some do choose who they love, life can be pretty unexpected sometimes.


Do you find labels (relating to sexual orientation) necessary?
I do not think it is necessary, but up to each individual. Some like it, some don't. Sometimes I just find that labels can be so extra and over the top. For me I just see everybody as one.  


What do you say to people who ask, "How do you know you are gay/are you sure you are gay"? 
I will tell them, "I know myself better than anybody else and there’s no other explanation, because it is what it is, and I am who I am.”


Do you think Pink Dot is effective? Why?
I do think Pink Dot is effective in its own way. People are getting more open minded and aware of what’s going on. It also creates an opportunity to help people to come out. I love how straight people, like family and friends, attend just to show their support. It's all love.


What do you have to say to anti-LGBT people?
You don't have to say anything if you don't like us or don't understand us. Being tolerant and loving one another is all we need. Otherwise, don't embarrass yourself with ignorance and negativity.


Last words?
Other than homosexual, gay can be defined as happy. So if you are gay, be a happy one!