Above is an article on a transgender woman named Trina living in Jamaica, one of the most dangerous countries in the world for Trans and Gender Non-Conforming individuals. The Caribbean has not been the ideal environment for gender non-conforming individuals. Men who are seen as feminine or ‘girly’ are often harassed, bullied and teased. The acceptance of gender non-conforming individuals have been a slow journey. Most recently, however, we have seen a shift in society from the traditional ideas and values taught to them in the days of colonialism. We do in fact have a long way to go but we are heading in the right direction. A direction of acceptance and inclusion for all individuals in Caribbean Society.  

There have been many views on homosexuality by different religious organisation, as can be seen in the article I included. The views of the Roman Catholic Church are that homosexuals are contrary to natural law and must be called to chastity. While other religions such as Hinduism sees sexuality as fluid and natural. Many Caribbean individuals are quick to quote bible or judge others for any radical difference that arise in society. Religion is often a tool used to hurt or chastise rather than uplift. 

Being the only male child of three, certain things were expected of me but I knew that I was different, that there was never a chance of me getting married to a woman. Coming out to my family was a difficult process. For one they were very religious and also of the strong belief that men are not supposed to ‘be like that’ following the view of most Caribbean families. I was therefore shunned by my family and I left home, all communications ceased except for my oldest sister. Over the years however we slowly got to a place, not of acceptance but of acknowledgment. While our relationship is mostly how it used to be the topic of my sexuality is often kept out of conversations.