Interview- A teenager’s insight on being a female bisexual residing in India

By the request of the interviewee, and the discretion of the editorial board, the interviewee will remain anonymous. This is to protect the identity and integrity of the individual and we request all readers to respect the same.

Question 1
As a Bisexual female in a stereotypical and rigid society like India’s, what do you feel is the toughest obstacle a member of the LGBTQ+ community has to face?

As a student I feel that the toughest obstacle is facing internalised homophobia. It gets worse when we face homophobic remarks from people around us that we really look up to. It gives rise to a lot of self hate and negativity.

Question 2
There is a common conception that females belonging to the LGBTQ+ community ‘have it easier‘ than men belonging to the community. What are your thoughts on the same?

I agree with it to a certain extent. Yes, being a part of the LGBTQ+ community is tough for everyone but there are a lot of stereotypes and stigmas regarding the “manliness” of a man which makes it harder for men to explore and/or express themselves in a proper manner.

Question 3
What is something that you would like to change about the perceptions of women in today’s society?

I’d like to change the perception that women are “delicate” and having motherly instincts is “natural” to them. It makes people see them as weak and they miss opportunities because of this notion.

Question 4
Do you think there are ways to tackle the prejudices and misinterpretations that our society has towards the LGBTQ+ community?
Definitely!! The first step is queer-inclusive education. This will make it easier to normalize children coming out or exploring their sexuality and/or gender. There are many ways to talk to our peers about this as well and try and convince them otherwise of their prejudiced and misinterpreted beliefs. Also, if someone is genuinely trying to educate themselves we should not turn them away and answer their questions to the best of our abilities. Most people want to know more but can’t talk about it because they’re scared of being “canceled” (other terms can be used here)

Question 5
Is there something you’d like to say to the closeted LGBTQ+ members out there?

Hang in there!! Please don’t give in to anyone who tries to invalidate your sexuality or your experience and do not feel pressured to come out to someone especially if it threatens your safety as a human. Remember that your community and your true friends will accept you as you are and you are loved in so many ways <3.

Question 6
There is a lot of talk about how LGBTQ+ community shouldn’t be referred to as a ‘community’ but should be treated equally. However, others feel that they should be treated as a separate community as it gives them the assurance that they are not alone. What are your thoughts on this controversy?

I feel that referring to it as a ‘community’ shouldn’t decide whether we are treated equally or not. The word ‘community’ does indeed attach a more wholesome vibe but the LGBTQ+ community shouldn’t be kept separate. The word community makes it feel like it’s a safe space for all the people who are scared to come out to their families or friends. They will always have one place to be themselves and it’s important that it’s denoted in that manner. We should be treated equally regardless of how we’re referred to.

NOTE: All opinions discussed are subjective in nature, and the questions and responses are not meant to offend any of the viewers. Any content that might be offensive to members of the LGBTQ community can be addressed via mail or social media platforms.

–The interview has been conducted by Siya Girisaballa