Stories of the Diaspora
Strangers at Home is a collection of relatable stories written by people of the diaspora living between two worlds. On identity. On belonging. On culture. On home.
Launching Soon.
Share your story
Whether you prefer writing, emailing, or having a conversation — choose whichever feels right for you.
Your story matters
We believe the most powerful stories come from lived experience. If you've ever felt like a stranger in a place that should feel like home, we want to hear from you.
Any background — first-generation immigrants, second-gen kids, third culture adults, returnees.
Your voice — write in your own style. We'll help with light editing, but the story stays yours.
Stay anonymous — use your real name or a pen name. Share as much or as little as you're comfortable with.
About the project
About Strangers at Home
A diaspora (/daɪˈæspərə/ dy-ASP-ər-ə) is a population that is scattered across regions which are separate from its geographic place of origin. The term "diaspora" is derived from the Ancient Greek verb διασπείρω, meaning I scatter.
The word is used in reference to people who identify with a specific geographic location, but currently reside elsewhere.
Historically associated with large "displaced" groups of people migrating (like the Greeks following the fall of Constantinople, or the Iranians following the 1979 revolution, or the Palestinian diaspora), the term is now more commonly used to include immigrants, third culture kids, and expats: everyone who lives away from "home", or in a culture that might not feel entirely their own.
The phrase "stranger at home" captures a feeling familiar to millions: the disorientation of returning to a place that should feel like home but doesn't quite fit anymore. Or the reverse, building a life somewhere new while carrying pieces of somewhere else.
Strangers at Home is a nod to the diasporas everywhere, exploring their feelings of displacement, inclusion, exclusion, alienation, or change. Assimilating into different cultures, coming to terms with their new sense of identity, struggling to find belonging, embracing their new environments wholeheartedly, or finally finding their "home". Following them as they continue to feel like strangers. At home.
These are stories of first-generation immigrants navigating new countries, second-generation kids straddling two cultures, third-culture adults who belong everywhere and nowhere, and people who've returned to find home has changed, or they have.
What we believe
Stories create connection. When someone shares their experience, others recognize themselves in it. That recognition is powerful.
Every voice matters. You don't need to be a professional writer. The most compelling stories come from authenticity, not polish.
Identity is complex. We don't ask people to simplify their stories or pick a side. The messy, contradictory, in-between spaces are where the truth lives.
How it works
Anyone can submit a story through our contribution page. We read every submission and work with you to prepare your stories for publication. You can publish under your real name or anonymously. It's your choice.
We're not a traditional publication with strict editorial guidelines or complex requirements. We're more like a community garden where different voices can grow in their own way.
We're not restricting you to any specific type of story. Voices shine when they're authentic, and that authenticity can stem from joy, from sorrow, from longing, or any other emotion that makes you feel like you have a story worth sharing.
If you're unsure of how you want to share your stories, or if you have questions or feedback, reach out to us at [email protected].