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MYTH:
Gays don't face the same prejudice and barriers
that other marginalised groups have.
TRUTH:
Gays don't face the same prejudice and barriers
that other marginalised groups have.
TRUTH:
The above statement is actually true; but not within the context of what this myth implies.
In the fight for equality and understanding of truth, homosexuals have a few barriers unique to their cause: Sexual Taboo, Internalised Homophobia, and Invisibility.
Sexual Taboo
Even within the heterosexual world, sexuality is still very much a taboo. Sexual taboos are barriers in non-biased education and tools for constructing misconceptions. Restrictions are often imposed on sexual activities, gender roles and interpersonal relationships. An example of this include difference in gender roles between sexes and how these may change depending on culture identity. These do not necessarily indicate incorrect or immoral sexuality.
Where there is significant taboo, there is significant myth and barriers toward learning and accepting the truth. There is significant myth surrounding homosexuality.
Internalised Homophobia
We have touched on this before. But what does it mean? Where does it come from? And why is this relevant to homosexuals? Put simply, internalised homophobia exists in individuals who subconsciously believe in the negative views of homosexuality. They are especially dominant when these are re-enforced by parental figures.
Of course this still exists within other marginalised groups such as the involuntary internalisation by women of the sexist messages that are present in their societies.
Internal homophobia sometimes results in homosexuals being reluctant to accept themselves, or even resisting participation in the gay liberation movement.
Invisibility
Relating to racial equality versus gay equality, the fact that most homosexuals are often transparent within society (yes, the idea that most homosexuals behave in a particular way is a myth), is a barrier toward reaching equality. You may be working or living with a homosexual and not even be aware of his/her sexuality because their lifestyle or behaviour is no different to the "norm".
This invisibility leads to misunderstanding. Even by the people closest to you.
Asian parents don't need to ask their child:
In the fight for equality and understanding of truth, homosexuals have a few barriers unique to their cause: Sexual Taboo, Internalised Homophobia, and Invisibility.
Sexual Taboo
Even within the heterosexual world, sexuality is still very much a taboo. Sexual taboos are barriers in non-biased education and tools for constructing misconceptions. Restrictions are often imposed on sexual activities, gender roles and interpersonal relationships. An example of this include difference in gender roles between sexes and how these may change depending on culture identity. These do not necessarily indicate incorrect or immoral sexuality.
Where there is significant taboo, there is significant myth and barriers toward learning and accepting the truth. There is significant myth surrounding homosexuality.
Internalised Homophobia
We have touched on this before. But what does it mean? Where does it come from? And why is this relevant to homosexuals? Put simply, internalised homophobia exists in individuals who subconsciously believe in the negative views of homosexuality. They are especially dominant when these are re-enforced by parental figures.
Of course this still exists within other marginalised groups such as the involuntary internalisation by women of the sexist messages that are present in their societies.
Internal homophobia sometimes results in homosexuals being reluctant to accept themselves, or even resisting participation in the gay liberation movement.
Invisibility
Relating to racial equality versus gay equality, the fact that most homosexuals are often transparent within society (yes, the idea that most homosexuals behave in a particular way is a myth), is a barrier toward reaching equality. You may be working or living with a homosexual and not even be aware of his/her sexuality because their lifestyle or behaviour is no different to the "norm".
This invisibility leads to misunderstanding. Even by the people closest to you.
Asian parents don't need to ask their child:
- Are you sure you're Asian?
- Have you tried being Caucasian?
- We want to take you to an ex-Asian program
- Your are not Asian. You only think you are!
Within liberation movements, women did not need to prove or educate their opponents of the existence of the genitals they were born with.
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