Benjamin (originally from Sweden) and Murillo (originally from Brazil) live together in Dublin.
Why did you move to Ireland?
Murillo: I came to Europe for the first time in 2010 for a backpacking trip around the continent. When I went back home to Brazil and was still in the closet, I realised that I needed a change. A larger city in Brazil was out of the question as they weren’t and still are not safe for LGBT+ people. I tried to live in Sweden for a while together with Benjamin, but the cold, dark climate and homophobia made me decide to return to Dublin.
What do you love about your new city?
Benjamin: The people I have met in Ireland are wonderful – kind, approachable and open for positive change. I also love its proximity to the great outdoors as the natural scenery is amazing here.
What do you miss about your hometown?
Murillo: Being far away from home for almost 10 years now makes realise how lucky I was having my entire family gathered together for Christmas, Sunday dinners and summer days at the beach – I miss that connection.
What do you not miss?
Benjamin: Sleet and homophobia – although Sweden is very progressive on paper, it is racist and xenophobic in practice. This really saddens my heart. The rise of the far right is scary and dangerous.
And finally, rate your queer scene. Anything different/similar?
Benjamin: There are good promoters for drag here, which I love. PantiBar is a gem. The George needs a facelift and decent beer! I have heard great things about a new club called Grace which will focus on techno – This excited me! My hometown of Gothenburg has a very small LGBT+ scene so most people move to Stockholm or Berlin. The actual nightlife in Gothenburg is really good. I really miss being able to stay out late and come home at sunrise. And I miss outdoor parties.
Murillo: The queer scene back home in Ararangua was, and still is, non-existent.
Look out for more Postcards From Home featuring postcards from the Irish LGBT+ community abroad and from new members to our queer family who have made a new home in Ireland inside the current issue of GCN.
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