I think many Americans take the acceptance of the LGBT+ community for granted. After reading this article, I realized how unforgiving this world actually is. In Kenya, homosexuality is illegal and anything remotely similar is extremely horrific in their culture. I can't imagine having to experience what Ryan did, and find him very inspirational.
Monday, January 16, 2017
Kate Boyer - Intersexuality in Kenya
The LGBT+ community has been growing rapidly these past few years. Recently, there has been a lot of talk concerning people who identify as transgender (trans). Transgender, although similar, is different from intersex. Intersex is when the sex of the child is unclear due to ambiguous genitalia. Ryan, originally named Ruth, is an intersex female. When he was born, his mother didn't know what sex he was so she decided that she wanted a daughter. Later, however, when Ruth reached puberty, it was clear that he wasn't female. The lack of breast development and the broadening of the shoulders made it obvious. Peers began to bully Ruth; this resulted in the boy dropping out of school at age 16. Ruth changed his name to Ryan and identifies as intersex, rather than trans. He does, however, live his day-to-day life in a trans-like manner.
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I agree. We all need to let each other live life the way we want to, and not force others to live up to our standards.
ReplyDeleteI also agree, especially since we ourselves have no idea or perspective as to how Ryan felt or feels. It's unfair for us to say what is best for Ryan when we aren't the ones who are actually experiencing it.
ReplyDeleteBullying is never right in the first place, and I agree that whatever you choose to be in the world, you should be it and not get judged for it.
ReplyDeletePeople should not bully you based on anything.
ReplyDeleteI hate how there are still so many close minded people even after the introduction to social media where people can peer into the lives of people sharing their stories about their struggles.
ReplyDelete