‘Nothing wrong with you.’ These four words carry decades of weight for many LGBTQIA+ Australians of Greek background.
They echo the kind of reassurance that Nektarios Christopoulos, Cathy Politis and John Tzimas wish they had heard earlier in life.
Born in Melbourne to Greek immigrant parents, Nektarios describes realising his sexuality in his early teens, but it would take another 15 years before he felt safe enough to begin coming out.
Cathy (Katerina), who arrived in Australia from Athens as a child, echoes this experience.
Coming of age in the 1970s, there was no language, let alone acceptance, for same-sex attraction in her environment.
Like many others, she followed a traditional path, married, and had children before eventually coming out at 46.
For John, realisation came later still. ‘I might have had an inkling at 18,’ he says, ‘but it wasn’t until counselling at 34 that I understood who I really was.’
Like Cathy, he had married and had children.
From left: Nektarios Christopoulos, Cathy Politis, John Tzimas / SBS Greek: Panos Apostolou
It has hosted events, built support systems, participated in Midsumma Pride Marches, to bridge the gap between Greek families and queer identities.
To honour 30 years of pride, courage and community, the Greek and Gay Support Network invites the public to a special Tavern Night Celebration on Friday, 30 May 2025 at The Aegean Restaurant, Melbourne.
The night promises food, music, dancing — and above all, the warmth of a community that continues to grow stronger.
