Mexican lesbians in New York suffer from emotional problems due to discrimination and a lack of job opportunities.
"Gloria," 29, is unemployed. She lost her job at a flower shop in Manhattan after coming out as a lesbian. "My boss told me that the worst thing to be in the United States is undocumented, and the second worst thing is to be undocumented and gay. My boss paid me my final salary of $300 and kicked me out," said Gloria, originally from Veracruz.
She has suffered from depression for eight months; she hasn't managed to find a job where she is "accepted for who she is." She has worked as a waitress, a cashier and a maintenance manager. Nevertheless, it is painful to endure co-workers' ridicule and criticism.
"Even Mexicans reject me. They view me like I have some sort of contagious disease. They won't shake my hand, either. All of this makes me feel horrible," she affirmed.
Receiving therapy
Gloria's family also rejected her. Her father threw her out of his house in Queens when he found out about her sexual orientation.
"I belong to a group of Latina lesbians. I have a girlfriend, but I'm not happy. I'm receiving psychological support and I get therapy. I hope I can feel better," said the young Mexican woman.
Gloria thought about suicide, but therapy helped her to develop a "more positive outlook on life." She hopes to some day start a family with her girlfriend.
Support
To receive psychological and employment counseling, visit the website www.lasbuenasamigas.org or call 718-596-0342.
