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As if the LGBTQ+ community doesn’t have enough to deal with, they get faced with ignorant remarks and wrong impressions all the time. But whether it comes from genuine interest to be educated or being offensive intentionally, it’s good to debunk common misconceptions and stereotypes. .
After all, society has come a long way in gaining acceptance and visibility, and there’s a need to continue maintaining and progressing. In Singapore, where societal norms and cultural expectations are deeply rooted, these misconceptions can lead to misunderstandings and even discrimination.
So why not let’s clear the air. Here are five of the most common myths about the LGBTQ+ community, debunked with facts, empathy and accuray.
1. “Being LGBTQ+ is just a phase”
Ah, the classic dismissal. Many people still believe that identifying as LGBTQ+ is just a temporary phase that people “grow out of,” especially among younger individuals. This misconception is often heard in family settings, especially when someone comes out. Parents may dismiss their child’s identity as a “Western influence” or “confusion.” However, the existence of LGBTQ+ individuals spans all cultures, religions, and histories, and it’s not something unique to nationality or heritage.
The Reality
Sexual orientation and gender identity are fundamental aspects of who we are, just like being right-handed or left-handed. They’re not simply fleeting whims. Numerous studies confirm that LGBTQ+ identities are valid and enduring, not something people wake up one day and decide to try on like a trendy outfit.
2. “LGBTQ+ people have an agenda to convert others”
Some folks genuinely believe LGBTQ+ individuals are out to recruit or influence others to adopt their orientation or identity, like some kind of secret club or cult. There have been increasing concerns about LGBTQ+ “influence” in discussions about education and media. Sure, representation is a lot more mainstream nowadays, and some people worry about LGBTQ+ representation in films or TV shows “corrupting” youth. In reality, representation helps create understanding and acceptance, not conversion. If seeing LGBTQ+ characters could “turn” someone gay, wouldn’t decades of heteronormative content have turned everyone straight?
The Reality
Let’s set the record straight: nobody can be “converted” to be LGBTQ+. It’s not a choice — like Lady Gaga once sang, “I was born this way”. This myth often stems from fear and a lack of understanding about LGBTQ+ lives.
3. “Gay men are all flamboyant, and lesbians are all butch.”
Stereotypes about how LGBTQ+ people “should” look or behave are persistent in society and often wildly inaccurate. You simply can’t assume someone’s sexuality based on their appearance. In fact, stereotypes can make it harder for individuals to feel seen or accepted. For example, a gay man in Singapore might feel pressured to conform to certain behaviors to “prove” his identity, or a lesbian might face skepticism if she enjoys traditionally feminine things. It’s high time we let people be who they are — labels or no labels.
The Reality
The LGBTQ+ community is as diverse as any other. Gay men aren’t all into fashion or musicals, and lesbians don’t all wear flannel and ride motorbikes. Similarly, bisexual and transgender individuals don’t fit into boxes either.
4. “LGBTQ+ rights are unnecessary because Singapore already accepts everyone.”
Some argue that LGBTQ+ activism is redundant in Singapore, claiming the community already advocates for equality and social acceptance. Well, I beg to differ. The LGBTQ+ individuals still face discrimination from laws, such as LGBTQ+ couples cannot legally marry, which affects their ability to access public housing. Transgender individuals also face difficulties in updating legal documents to reflect their gender identity. These are not minor inconveniences – they’re significant barriers to living freely and equally.
The Reality
While Singapore has made progress – such as the repeal of Section 377A in 2022 – there’s still work to be done. LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face challenges, including housing discrimination, barriers to same-sex marriage, and workplace bias. Acceptance is growing, but systemic change is still needed to ensure equal rights for all.
5. “Being LGBTQ+ is incompatible with religion.”
This is a particularly sensitive topic, especially in multicultural and multi-religious societies like Singapore. The common misconception is that LGBTQ+ identities and religious beliefs are inherently at odds, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Yes, identifying as queer is particularly challenging for LGBTQ+ individuals from religious families, who may feel torn between their identity and their faith. However, groups like Free Community Church and inclusive religious leaders are working to create spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals can celebrate both their faith and their identity without compromise.
The Reality
Many LGBTQ+ individuals are deeply spiritual and find ways to reconcile their faith with their identity. While some religious interpretations view LGBTQ+ relationships as incompatible, others embrace a more inclusive approach.
These Common LGBTQ+ Misconceptions Should Be Debunked For Better Understanding
Misconceptions about the LGBTQ+ community often stem from ignorance, fear, or outdated beliefs. By debunking these myths, we take a step closer to fostering understanding and acceptance — not just in Singapore but everywhere.
It’s essential to remember that not everyone in the LGBTQ+ community has the exact same experience. Each person’s journey and identity are unique, shaped by their personal life, culture, and circumstances. If we approach these topics with curiosity and empathy, we can create a society where everyone feels safe to live authentically.
If you or someone you know is struggling with sexual identity or coming out, A Space Between provides a safe environment for support with queer-friendly counsellors. Besides being a resource for help or navigating the challenge of coming out, A Space Between also shares advice on therapy and LGBTQ+ issues through online blog articles, as well as holding community events.
