According to a report by Toronto Public Health in 2001, 1 in 10 Canadians identify as LGBTQ. For many in the South Asian LGBTQ community, however, coming to terms with their sexuality remains a struggle or a challenge because of social stigma. Several South Asian men and women here in Toronto are living dual lives afraid to come out for fear of backlash, isolation and rejection.
Keeping up with the traditions and culture of the South Asian family becomes a constant battle for them.
“When I came out of the closet, I was expected to be disowned and I was expected to have a family…I felt I would be kicked out of the house and I actually felt quite nervous and scared,†said Haran Vijayanathan, 36, an active member in the LGBTQ community.
Many people in the South Asian community believe that being gay or queer doesn’t even exist, but others are slowly accepting it.
Keeping up with the traditions and culture of the South Asian family becomes a constant battle for them.
“When I came out of the closet, I was expected to be disowned and I was expected to have a family…I felt I would be kicked out of the house and I actually felt quite nervous and scared,†said Haran Vijayanathan, 36, an active member in the LGBTQ community.
Many people in the South Asian community believe that being gay or queer doesn’t even exist, but others are slowly accepting it.