Painting a New Canvas: Breaking LGBTQ+ Stigmas
It’s finally Pride Month, a time to celebrate all genders within the LGBTQ+ spectrum! Beyond the celebrations, it’s also a call to end stigmas and promote gender equality.
Nowadays, many people in the community experience greater equality thanks to activism. However, there are still individuals who hold judgment against others based on their gender identity and representation.
Painting a New Canvas: Breaking LGBTQ+ Stigmas and Discrimination
Despite the ongoing call for equality, many people in the LGBTQ+ community still experience discrimination and judgment. On the other hand, there are also those who foster love and acceptance for those who belong in the community.
“My son is gay. When I wrote that, he hadn’t told us yet. I don’t know how to tell my child how much I love him. I am very proud of my child”
Gloc 9 during an interview with ABS-CBN
People like Gloc 9, the rapper of ‘Sirena‘, have spoken about writing the song as gifts to his gay child. The 2012 song emphasizes the perspective of homosexual individuals and how society treats them. This song is blatant proof that discrimination exists for those in the community.
Moreover, some people within religious groups stigmatize LGBTQ+ individuals, treating being gay as an abnormality. One netizen shared an experience where a JoyRide rider put him in an uncomfortable situation. In the video, he was asked inappropriate questions and told he was not on the right path simply because he was feminine.
You see, these are just examples of the stigmas and discrimination the LGBTQ Community faces.
That’s why, if we cannot stop those who insist on imposing their beliefs on others, we should strive to become safe spaces where people can be themselves. Additionally, some still view being gay as an insult—when it isn’t.
In fact, many successful queer individuals are thriving in this world not minding about judgments. They’re still the same people with the same anatomy, regardless of their achievements. They are humans who deserve respect, just as they respect others.
The things and situations mentioned are just the tip of the iceberg. In reality, more societal issues weigh heavily on the shoulders of those in the community. Even today, they continue to fight against these issues to provide future generations with a safe space to be themselves. This is why I’m writing this article—to show support for our friends who bring color to a world of black and white.
Abante bahaghari, kasama ang babae! As a feminist and an ally of the LGBTQ community, I continue to support self-expression and fluidity. Be free and happy; as long as you’re not hurting anyone, you’re doing good. Let us continue to foster a world of love and acceptance to create more safe spaces for everyone. Happy Pride Month!
