Tuesday 31 July 2012

Sexual Orientation in America


Sexual Orientation in America


This video consists of a panel of three people, a Transgender, a Bisexual and a Homosexual. The format is a combination of discussion and callers questions. It’s an interesting video to watch as it shows the thoughts of people from all sexual orientations (there is also a straight woman) who currently live in America. The topics range from sexual health, awareness of one’s sexual orientation, ‘coming out’ and how people respond. One of the most telling discussion topics, that in my opinion says a lot about the current state of America, is that of public affection. Russell, who is the panel leader, brings up the fact that there are still many barriers that homosexuals have to face when out in public. For example holding hands, kissing etc is still viewed with distaste when homosexuals are involved; however it is perfectly normal for heterosexual couples. Indeed the Bisexual explained that while her mum encourage and welcomed the presence of men in her daughter’s life, they were allowed to sleep round etc, this was not the case when she dated females.
  
I think the most important thing to draw away from this video is that there are many problems faced by Homosexuals and Transgender individuals, however the very presence of this video indicates change. There is no doubt that even ten years ago, individuals would be comfortable enough, let alone allowed to talk this openly about their sexual orientation. While there is still a lot of resistance to people who vary sexually from heterosexuality, it is becoming more and more acceptable. A large part of this is due to people like Ellen Degeneres, ‘coming out of the closet’. Well known people such as Ellen have vast influence on the way people think, especially in such a media-driven culture as America. 

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