The world has been witnessing a lot of debates regarding censorship of LGBTQ media contents. It has become an important issue to be addressed because there is a need for people to know about it. This article will focus on some of the ethical, social and political implications that surround the censoring of LGBTQ media contents.
Ethically, censoring of LGBTQ media contents has led to the violation of human rights since all people have a right to express themselves freely without any form of discrimination. Therefore, this leads to denying someone their fundamental right when they are censored hence making them feel inferior. Censorship of LGBTQ contents makes it hard for those who support it to voice out their views or opinions. It also means they cannot access reliable information regarding these issues from credible sources hence creating an atmosphere where myths and misconceptions thrive. Socially, censoring LGBTQ contents creates room for more stigmatization of homosexuals and transgender. The society becomes polarized where some individuals view themselves as superior than others and thus creating a gap between those in favor and against it.
Politically, censorship of LGBTQ contents is not beneficial for democracy, especially in countries where freedom of expression is guaranteed by law. Censoring LGBTQ contents contradicts what is stated by the constitution regarding freedom of speech.
A country like Kenya allows gay marriage but prohibits gay advocacy, which is unconstitutional. Such actions create fear among gays since they may end up being arrested if they come out publicly.
Communities creatively respond to such challenges through various ways.
Social media platforms provide a platform whereby people can air their views and opinions on the issue. Some of the communities use hashtags on social media platforms, which bring awareness about the LGBTQ censorship issue. They encourage others not to give up on their fight against homophobia. Others have even gone to court fighting for their rights to be heard when there are violations that occur. These actions help protect them while at the same time promoting their voices.
What are the ethical, social, and political implications of censoring LGBTQ media content, and how do communities creatively respond?
Censorship of LGBTQ media content has ethical, social, and political implications that affect individuals, groups, and society at large. The impact of censorship extends beyond the individual level and can create ripple effects across various levels of society. This essay explores these implications and examines how some communities have creatively responded to them.