Love is an innate human feeling that comes from within. It can be described as an intense emotional affection towards someone beyond physical and mental attraction. People tend to express their love for others through romantic acts like kissing, hugging, touching, etc., which are considered normal among heterosexual people.
Some may wonder how such acts are validated or marginalized in the case of LGBTQ love. This article explores this issue and explains why cultural and social practices have always been influential in validating or devaluing LGBTQ love.
Cultural Validation
Cultural validation refers to the acceptance of behaviors and beliefs within a community. In most cultures, same-sex love has been accepted as part of culture, though sometimes it has been associated with different meanings.
In Ancient Greece, it was acceptable for men to have relationships with other men but not women.
In Africa, homosexuality was viewed as unacceptable because it was against religious principles.
Societies have slowly accepted sexual diversity based on several factors.
One factor that has played a significant role in validating same-sex relationships is social media. Social media platforms have provided a platform for individuals to express themselves freely without fear of persecution or rejection. They offer a safe space where people can connect and share ideas while building strong relationships with others who have similar interests. As such, they've opened up new opportunities for LGBTQ people to form meaningful relationships online.
Another way that cultures validate LGBTQ love is by recognizing same-sex marriages. While many countries still do not recognize gay marriage, those that do create an environment conducive for these relationships to thrive. Same-sex couples enjoy legal rights such as tax benefits, health insurance coverage, joint adoption, and estate planning, which are essential aspects of any relationship.
They get to build families without discrimination from employers or landlords.
Societal Marginalization
Society marginalizes LGBTQ love through various means like imposing stereotypes, victimization, criminalization, and isolation. Stereotypes about gays and lesbians include the belief that all gays are promiscuous or sexually immoral, which makes them less attractive to partners. It also prevents LGBTQ people from exploring their full potential in society, as they constantly worry about being judged for their preferences. Victimization refers to mistreatment based on sexual orientation.
Transgender women face physical assaults, rape, and murder due to their identities. Such violence creates a hostile environment that forces LGBTQ individuals to stay hidden within closed spaces, limiting their access to resources and support systems.
Isolation is evident when members of a community reject others who identify with different gender or sexual orientations. This practice leads to social exclusion and rejection among family and friends, making it challenging for some to express themselves openly.
Cultures and societies have always played a vital role in validating or devaluing LGBTQ love. While some communities embrace same-sex relationships, others shun them based on traditional beliefs and norms. As such, there's a need for more awareness campaigns to help educate the public on the importance of accepting everyone regardless of their orientation. People should be taught that loving someone does not depend on gender identity but rather on emotional connection and intimacy. It would be best if we all embraced each other without prejudice so that everyone can enjoy the freedom to love without fear of persecution or judgment.
How do cultural and social practices validate or marginalize LGBTQ love?
Cultural and social practices have long played an important role in validating or marginalizing LGBTQ relationships. Historically, many cultures and societies have viewed homosexuality as deviant behavior that should be suppressed, punished, or even criminalized. This has led to widespread stigmatization and discrimination against LGBTQ individuals, including denial of basic rights and freedoms such as marriage, adoption, and housing.