It was not the first time when I talked with someone about sexuality. In fact, we discussed about gender and sexual preferences several times randomly. What truly struck me was how he stated that there are some gays and lesbians who are feeling entitled with their so-called rights, and even went far to discredit the other gender. In a calm manner, I shared my perspective towards the LGBTQ+ community.
Out of the blue, he asked, "If I were to ask you, do you know your sexual preference?"
"I am gender fluid," I replied without hesitation.
He continued with series of questions that I finally spoke to him, "I think the bottom line here is that we respect each other regardless of our gender and sexuality. In my opinion, we can't generalize the community if we only look at one rude behavior. That's the reason why we need to be sensitive and informed in different aspects."
The LGBTQ+ Community
I had attended series of trainings, webinars, seminars, and even workshop on Gender Sensitivity. In fact, I was one of the participants in ASEAN Gender and Sexuality Issues. However, no matter how I put words in this blog, I know I still need to learn about the community.
Well, I should admit that the first time that I encountered a huge crowd of the community was when I became the project nurse in a campaign. The project focused on the LGBTQ+ Community, and I must be grateful that I managed to talk with them regarding their stand and the discrimination they experienced. A total of 350 people from the community of whom that I interviewed with is enough for me to realize that they deserve to be heard and they need to be heard in our society.
A Short Chitchat with the Barbies
I was in a workshop last month when I had the chance to meet three wonderful people. Two of them are social workers, and the other one is a bookkeeper. I was seated at the same group with them that an idea came in my mind. Since I am doing my random interview with different people, I would ask them if they could speak up for the LGBTQ+ Community.
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (Intersex and Asexual) or otherwise known as LGBTQIA. These are the term which describe about the person's sexual orientation and sexual identity. At first, I was only limited to knowing between gays, lesbians and homosexuals but now, it broadened my knowledge the different sexual orientation.
Going back, I finally asked Cham, Christian, and Jayno to do a short sharing for my Anj Random episode. I was glad that they agreed to do the episode with me.
Well, here is our short episode (it was originally 36 minutes but I managed to shorten the video without losing its substance and lessons).
The original 36-minute video taught me to understand the community even more. From topics of coming out, trying to fit in the demands and the expectations of the society because of ones gender and sexual preferences, and even falling in love with the same and opposite sex. Most of all, I appreciated the fact that we are all capable of falling in love and accepting our flaws and love just knows no gender because love is plainly love.
Bow down ko nimo, Angel, sa imong bravery for taking on this very sensitive topic. It's like walking on eggshells. Love is complicated enough and being part of the lgbtq makes it even more complicated. I actually watched your interview with the barbies. Very interesting conversation. You asked the right questions and you ended the interview beautifully. You know what, your post is just one of the many reasons why I am convinced I made the right decision to join the C3 challenge. Despite everything that's going on around us, the C3 activity has become one of the bright spots in my life this year.
ReplyDeleteI have high respect for this LGBTQ people. At the workplace, they are the ones who excel. They are very funny too!
ReplyDeleteI have nothing against with LGBTQ people and they do deserve equal respect.They are so funny too !
ReplyDeletehigh respect for those belonging to LGBTQ people who give respect back to people. daghan talented and skilled from this sector of humanity
ReplyDeleteYou are nailing it, Anj. I always look forward to your entry every week even if I am not sure if my comments would really get through. Sometimes, Blogger's comment section acts weird. I am a huge supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, too, and I have brothers and sisters who have come out and identified themselves. Your post is definitely one of my C3 main courses, Anj. Looking forward to the next.
ReplyDeleteI really admire your courage ms anj in bringing up this sensitive issue and I do have high respect with LGBTQ peepz.
ReplyDeleteThe LGBTQ+ community feels more authentic than most. I get that this may be due to wanting to stand out or something, but I feel that that's better overall. :)
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