Integration
(Integrating gays and lesbians into wider society)
There is nothing new in the need for gays and lesbians to integrate into society and thereby enjoy their full civil and human rights. The matter was addressed in the constitutions of former communist and other countries at various times in the nineteenth and twentieth century. The argument centered around whether it was more valuable for the gay and lesbian citizens themselves to have their own society, or be integrated into general society. The overall conclusion after a hundred years of thought (!) was that integration was central to increased status, better health and wealth, and higher personal happiness and achievement.
Even today there is still a split in the gay community with some preferring to go only to gay places and live in gay areas, while others prefer to live in the wider community and do not frequent “the scene”.
The 2003 regulations that give gay men and lesbians rights at work also place legal obligations on employers and local authorities to ensure that gay men and lesbians have rights in and receive equality in society generally. Local councils and employers must recognise lesbian, gay and bisexual people as equal citizens. Councils are responsible for community cohesion, social inclusion and community participation in local governance. By and large, they have taken that responsibility on board.
We are now seeing advertisements for posts on bodies such as Local Police Authorities stating that all sections of the community may apply and have the right to be represented, and there are increased opportunities for gay men and lesbians to apply to join such authorities, be financially rewarded for doing so (usually its travelling expenses and subsistence), and acquire valuable contacts and experience.
Integrating into the wider society when you have been an outlaw or simply invisible to it for most of your life is extremely hard, as there are always suspicions that this is just a passing fad and it will soon be back to the old gaybashing ways.
Younger members of our community who have never experienced the bigotry and hatred of what we had before, do not feel such concerns. and readily assimilate into wider society while retaining their gay identity and are quite open about their sexuality and life style.
Journalists and web masters can help older gays and lesbians to integrate by reporting honestly and positively about the changes in society which help older LGBT citizens to adjust. Councillors and other public representatives can engender a more positive and welcoming culture through welcoming and mentoring newcomers. Citizens who are LGBT should question and challenge authorities and organisations which are not inclusive and assert their right not only to belong but to belong as an equally valued member of society.
Related subject: Social Exclusion
