Activism for Equality, Vatie Kerdzaia

“I’m Vatie, a member of Geogian Young Greens. Apart from Green issues I am involved in queer activism, feminism is also one of my passions. The reason I became an activist is that in my early years when I was feeling completely alone, didn’t know who I could ask for help, didn’t know what to do when I didn’t have support of my family, the society, or my school, the only bright side was seeing those activists who stood for me and fought for my rights. Now I think that I also should help the people who are the way I was in the past.

My friends circle turned out to be the most accepting. I can’t remember any of close friends who negatively reacted on me coming out. My family took it too hard. So much that when they found out about me, I had to leave my home. it was probably the hardest period of my life because I didn’t have anywhere to go, didn’t have any food, any closes. the only thing I had was a backpack. I didn’t have anything at all.

It was during thees hard times, when activists appeared in my life, they helped me overcome all the problems that usually occur after coming out. It was exactly that time when my family found out about me and it was such a hardship that I took several days off work and I told the manager the real reason why. When they found out I was gay, in exactly two days, like it was regulated in the contract, the HR called me and I was let go.

I study psychology at the Caucasus University. I actively involved with various activities, such as the world run. All my life I’ve been trying to feel social responsibility, to get involved in different things and I was given first opportunity at the zoo. I worked at the zoo for three years these were the best years of my life.

The feeling of freedom when I’m walking down the street when I’m not afraid of anyone or anything, is the biggest pleasure I’ve ever experienced in my life. To those, who can’t speak out about their sexual orientation or gender identity who are unable to protect their rights, I want to say – Don’t be afraid. We stand for them, we’ll protect their rights just the way others protected my rights. It’s important to believe that together, everything is possible”, – Vatie Kerdzaia.