#proud to be

Hi everyone! If you're new to my blog, welcome to Breakfast at Bridget's! To read my previous posts, just click on the links in the blog archive. Anyway, hi again! It's me (unfortunately) and today's post is about LGBT rights and the discrimination of gender identity and sexual orientation. And yes, I am on a roll on rights if you're wondering why all my posts lately have been so inspirational and empowering (kidding or not).

Now before I begin, let me clarify a few things.
- I'm not LGBT
- I believe in the equal rights for LGBT people

All around you, all over the world, there are LGBT people. Though you may not see it, or recognise it, there are people who are. They may be your family, your closest friend or just a stranger walking by on the street. LGBT stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender. I seem to be very fond of giving definitions of words so, let us begin with the meaning of gender identity. (from GENDER SPECTRUM)
Gender identity: one's innermost concept of self as male or female or both or neither - how individuals perceive themselves and what they call themselves. One's gender identity can be the same or different than the sex assigned at birth.

 
Equality and freedom from discrimination are fundamental rights that belong to all people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race or because they are intersex. On August the 1st in 2013, the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 was amended to make discrimination on the basis of a person's sexual orientation, gender identity and intersex statues against the law. Despite this important step forward, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people in Australia are still suffering and experiencing discrimination, harassment, and hostility in many parts of everyday life. For example, in public, at work or study, accessing health and other services and securing proper recognition of their sex in official documents.

Young LGBTI people aged 16 to 24 years are most likely to hide their sexuality or gender identity. They also report experiencing homophobic abuse (both verbal and physical), and other homophobias such as humiliation and social exclusion. These facts show the profound truths that many try to hide in the shadows. But there is no point trying to deny the fact that LGBTI people are certainly being mistreated.

Are they not human too? Do they not have emotions? Do they not walk on two legs? Why are people like that to them? LGBTI people do not feel safe and comfortable because of those who are racist and show prejudice to them. Almost half of all gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people hide their sexual orientation or gender identity in public for fear of violence or discrimination. LOOK at what we are doing! These ordinary, lovely humans are scared. Scared of us.


LGBT is what I call diversity. We shouldn't judge or hurt them and let them be who they want to be. It's just their identity. Those who are LGBTI should be proud. You should be happy and proud on who you are and what you have become. Don't let others put you down for who you truly are on the inside. The discrimination against the LGBTI members is an issue that transcends that community and affects us all.

LGBTI should have their own identity, dignity and integrity. And we should advocate for these laws and policies, so everyone can live where their head is held high and can enjoy their rights fully. People around the world face violence and inequality - even torture sometimes and death - because of who they love, how they look, or who they are. Is this the world you really want to live in?

Sexual orientation and gender identity are integral aspects of ourselves. When identity is questioned, answer with pride. When sexuality is questioned, answer with pride. There is no need to change for others, just stay the same. When you are questioned, answer with pride.

All humans should protect rights and save lives. Imagine a world where everyone lives in harmony and peace...it's achievable, if everyone tries. It's time to give LGBTI people what they deserve. What they are worthy of. Give them their rights and equality. Let them be proud.

 
No matter what, we are all the same inside. We are all in the end, human.

That's all for today! Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post! This post is once again informing those who don't understand or are unaware of the inequalities LGBT people have to go through everyday.  Everyone is unique and special and we should let them shine in their own way, at their own time. Remember to follow my blog by clicking the follow button on the side, keep updated on my posts and share my blog with others! I love you all! 💕

Yours forever,
Brianna Fong
∞ ∞      ∞ ∞       ∞ ∞
QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"This is your life. Do what you love, and do it often."


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