Samra is a Libyan entrepreneur, and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community.

Kun interviewed Samra who talked about personal opinion and expressed the fear that LGBTQ+ people feel in their own country. Here is what Samra had to say:

What do you know about the LGBTQ+ community in Libya ?

I started discovering the LGBTQ+ society 4 years ago, before that I thought I was the only LGBTQ+ person! But eventually I got to know many LGBTQ+ people.. Because they feel persecuted by the Libyan community, they created their own community.

Have you ever met any person within the LGBTQ+ community in Libya ? If so, how did that make you feel?

The fear factor is always present when I meet other LGBTQ+ people, that is why we don’t always meet, as we fear persecution from extremist militias, and recalling previous incidents, gathering in public places has become dangerous for us.

Are you with the LGBTQ+ rights in Libya? If yes, how would you show your support?

Of course, as for my support, I try to be there if there is any opportunity to help, but I can’t go public as I live in Libya.

Do you consider your work place, a safe place for an LGBTQ+ person to work at or come out in ?

I think that my workplace is considered somewhat safe, but this represents 1% of the Libyan labor market, as most companies and workplaces in general impose many restrictions, Luckily, I have a safe work environment and most of my colleagues know that I’m an LGBTQ+ person and they accept it.

If you find out one of your family members/relatives is an LGBTQ+ how do you think you’ll deal with that?

It’s ok, this won’t make a difference, I will support them and explain to them that it is “not wrong” and that they aren’t the only ones who are different in the world, and I’ll support them to get to know the LGBTQ+ community, and not to be afraid, nor run away from themselves.

In Libya, the LGBTQ+ community suffers from all types of discrimination, religion because it’s forbidden, society wise because its a shame, and the law doesn’t grant or believe in their rights, do you think the awareness KUN is providing, will help and change the idea the anti queers in Libya have about the LGBTQ+ community?

Of course, I have a lot of hope!