“When I came out to my family most of them were quite supportive and tried to understand.
But my older brother wouldn’t accept it, and one evening he called some friends and they dragged me out of the house on to the street, hit me and souted to the entire village “Joel is gay”.
My parents had no choice – they had to disclaim me and declare publicly I am a disgrace to the family.
After recieving several death threats I had to run away, and after months of struggling I managed to arrive in Germany.
I hope I can be myself here and live a free life, but deep inside I will always miss my home and my family.”

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