When the bare minimum isn’t even met, unfair treatment and the disgusting looks received are just a couple of the many experiences faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, the list goes on extensively— I could enumerate a hefty amount of it, potentially filling up several pages. In the fifth edition of its annual Google’s Pride Conversation, held last June 4 at their headquarters in Taguig, several social media personalities, including Joshua Cruz, Jan Angelo, Roanne Carreon, and Yani Villarosa, graced the event, which was also hosted by Baus Rufo. The conversation explored different topics related to queer stories, and the participants’ belonging to the community added significant value to the event. They shared their personal experiences, underscoring the universal importance of their stories being heard.
The Fact That You Didn't Hurt Anyone
We can start with a look out in the open, a viral post made rounds on social media over an incident where Kim Ezekiel faced discrimination from a Joyride driver. Kim was met with overt hostility, as the driver’s tone showed disgust, seemingly convinced that belonging to the community was sinful. The situation escalated to involve Kim’s family, who, instead of offering support, responded differently. While such occurrences are not uncommon and have persisted over time, the question arises: In the big year of 2024, why do people from the community still face hatred and disgust for simply existing? The fact that Kim did not hurt anyone, he was just there to mind his own business, he found himself on a dreadful path that should never have happened.
The fact that he did not hurt anyone. This may highlight the importance of queer visibility, which can be defined more simply. Queer visibility goes beyond mere representation and to say that the community is visible and recognized means that they are there to feel safe and accepted for who they are. Perhaps, the conversations facilitated by Google yesterday and the events showcased during Pride month serve as catalysts for change. These discussions don’t just aim to increase visibility and representation within the community; they are pivotal steps towards stirring hearts and reaching a broader audience. Because after all, it is the fact that he did not hurt anyone, the same way goes with a lot of people in the queer community. A safe space is not exactly an area or location, it is the people who will make you feel safe, accepted and celebrated that will make you revisit that exact space.
BUilding Safe Spaces, Allyship and Kindness
Choosing to come out of the closet varies differently, it doesn’t really equate to having the same experiences with the community. Some may fully accept and others with full disgust and rage, and with the rise of platforms like YouTube, it’s now easier to find content to relate to, especially in the LGBTQ+ community, you can find inspiration to.
Joshua Cruz, the lifestyle creator admitted that they didn’t need to come out because of their supportive family. “No one is pressuring you to come out, only do it when you’re ready. If you’re still figuring things out, you can Google resources to educate yourself and also find YouTube creators that resonate with your queer journey,” he shares.
It can be segued then to one of Jan’s closest allies, Allison Barretto, Rec•Create founder who highlighted that being an ally to the queer community is not a heavy and difficult task to do. “It’s so easy to love people from the community and accept them as human. You just have to be a decent human being,” she said. “Start small, recognize your privilege, step up and show up for your LGBTQIA+ friends.” This can also be attributed on our Pride Month Cover Story, where Drag Queens have constantly stressed them being seen as a lesser part of the community since they are part of the queer community.
The LGBTQIA+ community needs allies who celebrate their identity and provide support, even in small ways, during difficult times. Whether they are family, friends, or colleagues, allies help LGBTQIA+ individuals live happily and confidently.
“You don’t have to go the extra mile to help LGBTQIA+ members, but it wouldn’t kill anyone to be informed,” said Bryan Larosa, Joshua’s best friend and ally. “Learn how to respect each and every one regardless of their gender and preference. I think that’s the most you can do.”
You're Here, Loud and proudly Queer
In talks of queer visibility and representation, social media personalities play a crucial role. Their presence, confidently owning their truths and stories, catalyzes amplifying the voices of the community. By simply sharing their experiences, they send a powerful message to anyone listening, whether closeted or not, that they are not alone and that there is nothing wrong with being different. Their queerness is affirmed by their very existence, and their presence is a statement, regardless of how they choose to present themselves in public.
For Joshua Cruz, who has experienced being treated differently because of his femininity, his story proudly champions the idea of embracing one’s true self, viewing femininity not as a weakness but as a strength. Let’s be honest, Yani and Roanne’s love stories embody the dreams of many in the queer community: the ability to confidently share the love of their lives with the world. And, Jan’s skincare content challenges the notion held by many cis-gendered males that skincare is a “gay” thing, a derogatory remark often used where he’s just simply taking care of himself.
These individuals, through their presence, are more than how they are perceived. Their influences and stories make them significant figures within the community. Beyond their public personas, they are queer individuals with the power to impact lives through their narratives, how they carry themselves, how they perceive the world, and most importantly, how they treat others.
It must be said, that a safe space is not defined by an actual space or location but by the people and the community within it—those who accept, celebrate and find inspiration in each other’s stories with love and compassion.
If you want to read more about Queer Safe Space, read our Pride Month Cover Issue featuring Ms. Eva Le Queen, M1ss Jade So and MRS TAN.
You can also listen to our Podcast here: The Zeen Zone
For more content and #OnTheZeen happenings, follow our social media accounts @zeenmagazineph
