Ananda

Some firsts and seconds:
Two weeks ago I went to a gig for the first time. I saw the band Tegan and Sara live with my lovely friend Daze, so basically this queer grrrl’s wet dream. It was such a wonderful night, which I’m glad I shared with my sweetest enby friend.

The next day (….or the day after, I forget) was another first, the first time I voted. It was the EU referendum and the question was whether we would remain or leave the European Union. I voted remain, against the majority of the population: We ended up getting the “leave” decision.

I went to my second Pride event. Last year, I went to the regular Pride parade and it was really stressful and upsetting. I had only just come out and the person I went with—who happens to be a gay, white, cis mal—was telling me that I was just going through a phase and my identity wasn’t valid. And then some strangers started calling me “half caste,” something I hadn’t been called since I was in primary school. And to top it all off, the crowds made me lose the people I was with and I had a panic attack and went home alone.

This year was different, not necessarily better. But different. I prepared for it by making a selection of food with my friend who came with me. I also bought a pan flag for me and an ace flag for her. The prep work was much more enjoyable than the actual event. But that probably because I didn’t know anyone there, and and was too awkward and anxious to initiate anything. ♦