Everyone seems to have it together: throngs of perfect friends, eye-popping parties, and stunning good looks.
But what happens when anxiety, self-criticism, or even loneliness creeps in? Some people seek out a support group; others schedule a session with a therapist. Most, though, just keep pushing through their busy lives, hoping that negative feelings will pass.
Recently, OutClique magazine sat down with several community members who were surprised to discover how a shared meal, an infectious laugh, or a supportive pat on the back could lift them out of these darker spaces.
Each said that their newfound outlook came simply through joining one or more of the free “Health & Culture” events produced by Latinos Salud, the region’s most innovative non-profit community health clinic.
Samuel C
My name is Samuel. I’m an architect. As such, I designed an ideal life… or at least that’s what I thought. This past year pierced through me with changes that broke me from within. It began with a deep rupture and continued with a difficult move from Venezuela to Texas, and later to South Florida. I arrived carrying broken pieces of myself—lost, inhabited by doubt, fear, and uncertainty. I looked at myself and didn’t recognize who I was; I held myself and felt nothing. I didn’t know where I was or where I was heading.
That was when I found Latinos Salud. From the very first moment, I felt genuinely welcomed and understood. There I met Miguel, who introduced me to the (Wilton Manors location’s) Health & Culture group—a community that became family. Through them, I regained meaning, purpose, and hope. Today, with deep gratitude, I can say: I am Samuel Castro, and I have found myself again.
Victor A.
I was living a very intense lifestyle, marked by drugs and sex—the perfect combination to fall into addiction and end up on the streets of Miami, rejecting any kind of help.
When I decided to stop using drugs, I started looking for healthier alternatives to have fun. That’s when I found Latinos Salud, where I was able to access PrEP and other important services, such as the Health and Culture group.
It wasn’t a rehabilitation center in the traditional sense, but it helped me immensely during my recovery process. To my surprise, I found a place where I felt calm and accepted without judgment. I met talented, intelligent, and fun people who participated in these activities.
I remember when I attended my first event, I was a little shy at first, but everyone was very kind to me. I was lucky to meet several people from my own country, and beyond that, no matter where anyone was from or their culture, we all shared the same interest: having a good time in a friendly and fun environment. Most importantly, I felt safe.
The Health & Culture group that I attend at Latinos Salud’s North Miami location is led by Angel, an admirable member of the Latinos Salud staff, who always made sure the space remained a place of creativity, exploration, and enjoyment.
Today, I’ve been drug-free for three years, and I continue to participate in Latinos Salud’s activities because it remains a safe space for all.
Anonymous:
I attended the Latinos Salud beach volleyball picnic event this past Sunday and, for the first time, I felt genuinely comfortable and relaxed while meeting a group of people, which meant a lot to me as someone who experiences anxiety in new social settings.
All the members there were incredibly supportive and welcoming. I want to use this opportunity to say I truly appreciate Latinos Salud for creating such a warm, inclusive community and a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals to come together, feel supported, and build meaningful connections.
Erik J:
In November, I attended the Latinos Salud Miami SW Health & Culture group’s ice skating event; which was very exciting and fun! However, the part of the event that I loved and appreciated the most was hanging out and meeting new people, spending time with friends who you’ve met already through past events, or strengthening the community through these outings.
In this past year, Latinos Salud events have become something to look forward to—not just personally, but as a shared community experience. New friends I’ve made now plan how to get there and make a point of seeing one another.
In times when being queer and Latino is difficult and scary, Latinos Salud and its team make spaces and moments for us to have fun and express ourselves openly and proudly.
Your Way to Connect
Each member who shared their story invites OutClique readers to visit the “Events” tab on Latinos Salud’s website or follow the organization on social media to register for upcoming free events.
Visit www.LatinosSalud.org and click the Events tab
Or for other services, click on the Appointments tab.
Author: Megan Fitzgerald, PhD, Associate Professor
