Hues After The Rivalry (Achievers Series #1)

Kabanata 26

Hues After The Rivalry

Kabanata 26

"People should have the liberty to express themselves and pursue their interests without being constrained by gender stereotypes."

I stared at the people, who were watching me in front of the podium.

"I'm here in front of all of you, standing up, for my LGBTQ+ friends, family, and for others who couldn't stand up for themselves."

I breathed.

"Gender stereotypes have a long history, and maintaining them has negative repercussions. People who don't fit into established gender norms have for far too long been subjected to prejudice, marginalization, and exclusion, which has prevented them—us from leading happy lives. Maraming tao, na tulad namin, ang nakararanas ng diskriminasyon, magpasahanggang ngayon. It is critical to understand how gender stereotypes support injustice and inequality."

Medyo kinakabahan ako sa ginagawa kong speech ngayon sa harap ng maraming tao sa event. But I feel... free. This is a freedom. Napakalaking pribelehiyo nito sa akin, ang magsalita sa harap ng maraming tao patungkol sa usapin na ito, usapin na hindi gusto ng lahat.

"Ang daming nasirang kumpiyansa ng mga tao dahil dito. Apart from me, I have many friends who have experienced this. Let's not make fun of gays, lesbians, and transgenders individuals for what they wear just because you think it's not what they should be wearing. Let's respect their personal expression. Let's not be harmful. Hindi natin alam kung gaano kalakas ang epekto ng mga salita at mga matang mapanghusga sa kanila. It's difficult to build confidence, so let's not ruin someone's confidence. Your words have the power to hurt, let's be mindful of that. 'Wag natin hayaan ang sarili nating makasira. Let's give them freedom. Everyone deserves freedom."

I cleared my throat.

"Each person, has human rights, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Giving LGBTQ+ people their freedom requires treating them equally in social and legal contexts to heterosexual and cisgender people. LGBTQ+ people have the chance to contribute more to society when they are allowed to express themselves freely and pursue their goals without restrictions."

May iilan na tumango at ang iba, nagsasawalang-kibo. I'm fine with that.

"There are people who are part of the community that are inspirational. Marami ang nakakatulong, may sariling adbokasiya, at tinitingala sa industriya. Hindi sila—kami—salot sa lipunan. There are LGBTQ+ community organizations that provide support and resources to individuals facing discrimination, mental health difficulties, and harassment. Hindi natin nakikita lahat, pero marami silang mabuting nagagawa sa lipunan. Several LGBTQ+ community organizations and advocacy groups have contributed to society by supporting various causes, including children's rights, animal welfare, and other social issues. Although their primary mission centers around LGBTQ+ rights and awareness, madalas naman ay mas malawak ang magandang epekto nila sa lipunan natin."

I saw my mother smile at me. Nakangiti rin si Papa sa tabi niya. Their eyes are always, proud.

"Moving away from gender stereotypes not only makes people feel more confident but also builds a society that appreciates different viewpoints and experiences. Welcoming this freedom completely, trust me, we could create a place where individuals can freely pursue their interests and abilities without worrying about being judged or facing bias. 'Wag tayong maging madamot sa kaligayahan ng kapwa natin."

I saw my mother mouth 'I love you'.

"Equality should apply universally, without exceptions. There are no exceptions when it comes to equality. The same opportunities and rights should be available to everyone. Supporting the rights of LGBTQ+ people is supporting human rights. We should work to create a society where everyone is respected and feels safe. Let's honor love in all of its manifestations," I breathed freely. "I'm honored to back LGBTQ+ rights."