Taksim rally

Pushing through the masses of people in Taksim towards an impenetrable swarm of protesters carrying banners, signs, and raising their fists in the air. They chant in unison, "eşcinseller susmayacak." Yes, you are witnessing a gay pride rally in a majority Muslim country.

If this doesn't smash the stereotypes westerners have of the east, then what truly can? Then again, Turkey is a highly complex place that almost defies "east" or "west" labels. No one hid his or her face, no one sat timidly, content with merely participating by being there. No, this crowd was passionate. I was surprised to see women wearing headscarves also participating in the march. "Eşcinseller susmayacak." This chant plays over and over in my mind. I think to myself, "I have been silent." Not just about this, but about other things in my life. Sessiz Wesley, ürkek Wesley. But seeing this crowd today, these people who's skin fits them, who own their truth and are not ashamed of it, has awaken something in me.

My skin has not fit for a long time.