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Coming out is a privilege?
Hello everyone,
So, lately I've been reading loads of lgbtq literature, especially concerning MENA. I have come across many who think that coming out is a privilege (which I agree with but not in the same context), that it's been influenced by the west's binary roles: heterosexual or homosexual.
Many argue that the binary role is alien to this region and is mainly a new phenomenon influenced by the west, that they were mainly practices not identities.
and lgbtq people should realize that coming out, sexual identities and such are being imposed on Arabs.
Even if it's true, should that prevent activists and people who identify as such to "come out" and demand equality? How to reconcile your identity and culture? What do you think?
P.S. I have been recommended to read Joseph Massad's "Desiring Arabs" which explores this topic more in-depth, so has any one read it and what's your views regarding this subject?
Turing
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Hey there,
As far as coming out being a new phenomenon influenced by the west, thats true to some extent. Throughout historical arab literature, depictions of homosexual relationships were more prevelant in the past but during that time people did not understand homosexuality and thus did not think of coming out. And actually during those times homosexual acts were more acceptable in the middle east than western societies.
On the other hand, coming out is a fairly new phenomenon throughout the world, just as our understanding of homosexuality recently grew.
So the only way activists would be discouraged to come out is peoples beliefs in such things, however, i think that activists willing to come out should be encouraged in any way possible as that's the only way gay rights in the middle east can improve.
Also, i don't think we should attempt to reconcile our culture, our culture is there to be shaped and you should try your best to shape it so that you can be proud of it.
And you should be happy about your identity 'cause it's not a choice and you'll enjoy life so much more when you do!
P.S. I admire how much effort you seem to be putting in to understanding lgbt subjects. :)
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