It is a very tough job for gays and lesbians, particularly those who are of Asian descent. Rejection happens when they try to come out. It would be absurd for them to tell a friend or even a family member of their sexual preference because they fear that they will be taunted, bullied or even worse, shunned.
We may live in a modern global society but it does not necessarily mean that the mindset of our people becomes modern as a process. There are plenty of people, citizens and government officials alike, who do not support homosexuality.

When you spread the word to people that homosexuality is a sin, then hatred spreads against a growing number of homosexuals in Indonesia.

Taboos such as these are extremely threatening and dangerous to homosexuals, and after the murderous rampage committed by a gay individual named Ryan, animosity toward homosexuals has increased.

When the first HIV/AIDS case was discovered in the US, it originated from a gay couple and that began the start of the anti-homosexual rampage within that country. However, Americans became more comfortable with the idea of having a large population of homosexuals around. It took the US a couple of decades before they finally opened their arms and allowed gays and lesbians to have equal rights for the most part.

But the same cannot be said for Indonesia because as once mentioned, homosexual behavior is forbidden by morality and religion. To be honest, plenty of terrible acts are carried out against the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer) community that has not been acknowledged by the public. Now, in this generation, it is the perfect time to stand up for the equality for all people.

Equality should not be biased. It should be objective regardless of sexual orientation.

On Oct. 20, the organization GLAAD asked the US community to fight homophobia, but their attempt of awareness actually spread abroad.

Word of their publication spread in the entertainment world and was even found on blog sites. It is of no surprise that a country like the US is so open and willing to fight homophobia because that nation’s foundation support of equality is very strong; but when will Indonesia start doing the same?

Homophobia is a mental disease, a fear that can harm others and it has harmed others. As a country that considers itself democratic, Indonesia is entitled to promote human rights because that is the nature of a democratic state. Homophobia exists in our country and now is our turn to start taking action and inviting others to fight homophobia.

Cantika Paramitha R.
Bandung

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