Description
In many Asian countries, homophobia is rooted in ignorance rather than hate, which stems from the lack of visibility. This is made more apparent by laws that censor and limit local portrayals of the LGBTQ community. However, these norms are changing and Asian societies are generally open to dialogue. Highly visible LGBTQ events generally rely on 'loud' approaches like protesting to gain support and momentum. This may work better in Western contexts where individualism is emphasised, but they do not translate well in an Asian context where obedience, meekness, and collectivism have been ingrained into local culture. Asian LGBTQ communities may find themselves being alienated further within their milieu. How then should one approach advocacy of gay rights in an Asian context?
in another world/ 假如在另个世界 trials an alternate approach, delving into my journey as an Asian gay man and juxtaposing these experiences to those of Charlie, a pansexual man from Lincoln. Despite coming from geographies worlds apart, Charlie and I share many similar queer milestones from ice skating, to queer allyship, first sexual encounters, first pride, STI testing, enduring hate crimes, exes, and more. Harnessing the quietness of our lived experiences, in another world aims to create tolerance and understanding with new allies, eventually leading to acceptance. It also seeks to remind gay men to honor their promise of inclusivity, reminding us how we are a lot more connected than we know despite our physical appearances and circumstances.
