Pride Month : Confuting Myths

By: Aryan Kapoor

The LGBTQ+ community, also referred to as the gay community, is a loosely defined grouping of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, LGBT organizations, and subcultures, united by a common culture and social movements.

The LGBT Pride Month occurs in the United States to commemorate the Stonewall riots, which occurred at the end of June 1969. As a result, many pride events are held during the month to recognize the impact LGBTQ+ people have had in the world. However, from both outside and inside the community, there is criticism and protest against pride events.

There are many misconceptions about the LGBTQ community, with a lot of misguided opinions sharing their place. Here are a few common myths and misconceptions:

Myth: There is a stereotypical way of identifying people from the LGBTQIA community.

Reality: There is no specific mannerism or way of dressing that binds the LGBTQIA community together. This is no way to recognize people who are heterosexual, and similarly, this is no way to identify LGBTQIA members!

Myth: Homosexuality is a choice.

Reality: Homosexuality is a way of life and not something you choose. While some choose to keep it secret, others tend to be more open about it.

Myth: There is a specific lifestyle that the LGBTQIA community adopt.

Reality: The community has no distinct way of lifestyle. It is just like the heterosexual community!

Myth: Sexual preferences of the LGBTQIA community can be changed with therapy.

Reality: Sexual preferences are not choices, it’s something that defines a person and hence cannot be changed by psychological therapy. The LGBTQIA community has suffered a lot at the expense of such fakes and scams that claim they have a cure for sexuality.

Myth: Actual or perceived discrimination has little effect on LGBT health.

Reality: A recent study found that LGBT people living in states that had restrictions against same-sex marriage were more likely to have depression and anxiety than LGBT people living in states where this was not the case. Many elderly members of the community do not disclose their identity to health-care providers for fear of receiving inferior care - or of not being offered care at all; which in itself may contribute to further stress and, in turn, exacerbate existing health problems.

It is only with an open and educated mind, that a just future can be hoped for.