RESIDENTS BY MING DE NASTY

SCOUT

I identify as non-binary and a lesbian. I am 23 and live near the city centre. I love Liverpool. Ending up here was an accident, but I am so glad I did. I love Scousers for their humour, their honesty and the way they make space for difference.  

In Liverpool, I feel part of the LGBT+ community more than anywhere else I have lived. I do not have to search for belonging or explain myself. I no longer feel the need to hide who I  am or make myself smaller to fit in. The people here make me feel valid, important and safe. There are still moments of unease, but this city has given me hope that I can live openly and still have peace as a Queer person.  

I have always struggled to feel rooted anywhere, but Liverpool feels like home in a way that nowhere else has. When I arrived from Germany two years ago, I expected a culture shock. I was not ready for the accent, but the warmth of the people caught me completely off guard. I still remember going to the library and hearing “You alright, luv?” for the first time.  It was such a small thing, yet it told me I was in a place where people see you. I have noticed that Queer representation is everywhere, and I feel so privileged to experience this.