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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