I’m a member of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community. I’ve watched out for every piece of news on the murder of transgender Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude, allegedly committed by US Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton.
Like Jennifer, I was also a victim of bullying because of my being a gay, but I’m grateful that my family understands and supports me as I journey through life and accepts me as I am.
In Jennifer’s case, a lot of groups who are appearing on television showing support to her bereaved family, such as Gabriela, Bayan and Kabataan party list, may be somewhat out of place. I just don’t understand why these groups are focusing on the abolition of the Visiting Forces Agreement instead of helping her case.
Honestly, these groups are not helping but using us (LGBT people). They are exploiting us, maligning the image of most of us. The death of Jennifer has nothing to do with her sexual orientation. She was a victim of a heinous crime and that’s the bottom line.
The murder of any Filipino by any means and by any person is definitely unjust.
We are in a democratic country. Maybe Filipinos won’t accept us 100 percent, but we are all aware that the LGBT community exists and is respected by many. Many of us excel in the fields of arts, fashion, business and politics.
I hope this message will convey to each and everyone that every human being is entitled to enjoy all human rights, regardless of their gender identity and sexual orientation. And also we call on the militant groups: “Stop using the LGBT community for your hidden agenda.”
—CHRISTIAN “CHRISTINA” PAGARAN JR.,
human rights advocate,
Quezon City
prettytina1030@yahoo.com