Almost half of all homeless youth between the ages of 16-23 years old identify themselves as LGBTQ; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer. Studies estimate that as many as 10,000 LGBTQ youth are homeless in New York City. It's a epidemic that keeps rising along with suicide rates and HIV transmission.
Homeless LBGTQ outcasts from all over America escape to New York City in search of acceptance and equality. In a city with endless diversity and tolerance you'd think they'd find it. But, they don't. Rather their dreams of wanting to be treated "normal" end in high drug use, sex slavery and even suicide.
They walk the city's dirty streets desperate for food, shelter, guidance and companionship. Many have physical, mental and psychological scars from harassment and abuse(s) stemming from "coming out." Their stories are sad, terrifying, brutal and absolutely real.
Tuesday was my day to interview dozens of lonesome but courageous young people wanting to be a part of a documentary about Sylvia's Place. Named after civil rights activist Sylvia Rivera, young people lined up for hours in front of the shelter, waiting to share tales of their dark world.
Sylvia's Place is the one of four emergency over-night shelters in NYC for LBGTQ youths. It provides a safe place to sleep, a good meal, a cot for the night and breakfast in the morning. The care workers also provide a listening ear, affirmation and a friendly voice of encouragement. It's located in Hell's Kitchen, part of the Metropolitan Community Church of New York, a spiritual space that ministers to all walks of the rainbow.
My producer and I set up our camera in front of 3 beautiful stained glass windows near a small altar and worship table. Our first interview was with a transgender that goes by the name London. He wore long lashes, a wavy shoulder-length wig and pretty librarian glasses.
"People say it's a choice to be gay. I didn't chose to be this way, because, honestly, in this world, if I had a choice, I would chose to be straight. Knowing that I'm going to be treated like a piece of shit, why would I choose this?"
Later, a gay man with a blue frock and bald head told of a graphic experience living in Alabama.
"I was raped. I'll never forget it. I was raped by 5 white guys in Alabama. They took turns, all 5 of them, they took turns." --- long pause and more description --- "3 months later I found out I was positive."
And the interviews continued long into the evening, with dozens more waiting their turn at shedding their inner fears. For many young people it was cathartic, as if telling about the horrors of being 'different' would hopefully change perceptions. We assured them that that was one of our goals.
Not unusual, nearly all homeless youth come from extremely devout Christian families that force them out because of their sexuality. But despite an intolerant religion that condemns them to a life on the streets they somehow maintain their faith and belief in God.
For more information on Sylvia's Place check out a book of photographs called “Shelter" by 28-year-old
Lucky Michaels, also the Program Director at the shelter. His photos detail how cramped and uncomfortable the shelter is with only twenty-five rustic cots and limited floor space in one cluttered room.
The shelter does what it can but it's not nearly enough or nearly well-enough funded to cope with this growing epidemic. Still it's a spiritual refuge that offers more than most, without fear of condemnation or discrimination.
