What is family? Is it the people related to you by blood or by love? In this episode of Dem Bois Podcast, we question the idea of “family,” and what it really means. Today I sit down with Joël Simeu, a writer and poet from Cameroon now residing in New York, who is pursuing his PhD at Cornell University. Joel discusses his journey of self-discovery, transitioning to his chosen name Joel, and the challenges of “coming out” to a traditional Cameroonian family. He emphasizes the importance of self-love, gratitude, and community support. Joel also reflects on the impact of religious teachings and cultural expectations on his identity. Despite facing rejection from his family, he finds solace in friends and the freedom of living authentically.
We talk:
Joël’s transition journey - 8:11
His “traditional” upbringing - 19:51
“Coming out” to his family - 29:53
Questioning what family actually is - 37:57
Advice for listeners - 46:16
Click here for transcription!
Episode References:
Dem Bois Pod Ep. 3 - Surviving homelessness
Read more about Joël in his bio below:
Joël is a writer from Douala, Cameroon, currently based in Ithaca, NY, where he is completing his English PhD at Cornell University. His writing is grounded in a poetics of Black & queer futurity. Joël believes in the pursuit of liberation, justice, freedom, and love for all oppressed people. He enjoys going on walks and listening to jazz music. He’s an aspiring saxophonist and loves his friends.
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