Today, May 17th, is International Day Against Homophobia.
It seems silly to have a day for such an intolerance. Sexuality, just like skin, eye and hair color is something that is the set from birth. For a race as advanced as ours, here in the 21st century, it seems odd that such a intolerance exists.
Not only does it exist, it flourishes: Homosexuality is considered illegal in more than 80 countries across the world, and even more shocking that, homosexuality is punishable by death in seven countries.
I have been “out of the closet” now for just over one year. It’s an anniversary that I forgot to celebrate, but one I most definitely should have. Homosexuality still comes with a stigma. Some groups in society paint a picture of what they perceive homosexuality to be; nine times out of 10 it is a very far representation from the truth.
Unjust representations in the media and negative social attitudes led me to fight what I was at birthright, which led to deep bouts with self-doubt. Homophobia stems from ignorance, intolerance and fear. One person’s opinion can be passed onto another. Society’s opinion was passed onto me — the opinion that being gay was wrong.
So, today, I challenge you to be gay for a day. Imagine what it is like to live in fear — for many homosexuals, that’s everyday. I challenge you to hold the hand of a same-sex friend. I challenge you to share a kiss or a hug in a public place. The fear, adrenaline and embarrassment you feel is what many homosexuals feel every time they share affection with the one they love. Not embarrassed of what they are, or who they are, but embarrassed by the attention they receive from others for something as simple as a hug or a kiss with the one they love. Can you imagine that?
For those who know me, you love me. I am not what many depict me as. I have no radical “turn the world gay” agenda. Education does not lead to homosexuality. Education leads to a mind that can make a conscious and rational decision.
Homophobia is an extreme and irrational aversion to homosexuality and homosexual people. You don’t have to like me, you do not have to love me, but you must accept who I am.
My name is Blake Skjellerup, and I am a homosexual. Know me before you judge me.
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