I am aware that one of the laws in Trinidad does not allow the entrance of homosexuals in the country, what about local homosexuals? Is it against the law to be an open-homosexual? Is there homosexual organizations in Trinidad? Are they allowed to meet? I am interested in the legal aspect rather than the cultural aspect of the entire issue.
I would say that there are quite a number of homosexuals in T&T, who remain hidden in plain sight. A few years ago I was walking around by the Savannah and there was a group of those fellows prancing around, talking loud and primping to find customers! The word 'bullah man' tells you about them so it is no secret.
I do not know anyone that openly says they are gay but the signs are pretty obvious and all around and I mean ALL AROUND!
I think given the homophobic nature of Trinidad society gay people wouldn't be that open about it. But I would presume that there are some gay people nonetheless. I've never heard of anybody in T&T being imprisoned for being openly gay though.
I do not think they have to specifically spell it out to be noted. There are many gays (low to high classed) in Trinidad and they are unafraid to let people see their preferences, were it not so it would be more difficult to notice. Others are very bold in their dress styles and even wear light makeup. Of course just from watching the walk and tone of voice is a dead giveaway. The media I believe, has made it more socially acceptable. Years ago such boys / men would be beaten up by anti-gay vigilantes.
That's true, but I think the camp and effeminate gay man or butch and masculine lesbian is a stereotype. A man or woman could look "normal" (so to speak) and still be a homosexual.
For all I know, I could walk down San Fernando High Street and some of the people I look at could be gay or lesbian.
Granted, I take your point, however in my instance I am saying that if their are so many who show their preference then consider those who don't. I have seen women holding hands and kissing, but the men have not reached that far yet.
I guess. I don't think T&T has as big a reputation for homophobia as other Caribbean islands (such as Jamaica). But I think because Trinidad is a religious society, this probably makes people more homophobic.