Queer Fro is a showcase of LGBT African experiences, Opinions, News and Creative Expression on #ENTHUSE. Contributions can be made anonymously or otherwise to contributions@enthusemag.com
For a while now I’ve been meaning to address the issue of hypermasculinity in Botswana. As a young gay white male in Botswana, I am considered to be a seriously precious commodity – haha! I know what its like to want to identify yourself as an individual, be it going vegan, dying your hair or embarking on a journey of spiritual enlightenment.
Self identity forms the basis of many right of passage stories and I strongly feel that people should be allowed to freely explore themselves as long as they do not harm anyone else on their journey of self discovery. Many teachers, parents and institutions positively encourage personal growth among the youth, however; just how encouraged are the young men of Botswana to explore themselves and identify themselves as individuals?
This is a very volatile topic of discussion, so I will keep it concise. We need to stop the constant shaming of men who show emotion, men who wear skinny jeans, men who offer a standing woman their chair, men who refuse to have sex on their first date, men who show respect for people who are seen as less superior to them by society. All shaming of men who are positively impacting society through being genuine gentlemen must stop.
Have a look at my #InstaGallery feature discussing gender based stereotypes on a collaboration between myself and Dev Thomas from South Africa. (Main Picture)
