Conformity and All That

I have been spoiled by the work I have done with LGBT groups in the US. While all LGBT advocacy groups wish to advance LGBT rights and quality of life to a certain extent, one of two paths are usually chosen. The first seeks to enhance the rights of LGBT individuals while keeping their lives, culture and goals conspicuously separate from that of the mainstream, heteronormative culture. The second set of groups seeks to enhance LGBT rights by working to conform as much as possible to this heteronormative *lifestyle*. In anticipating my work with Blue Diamond, I assumed these two paths would be present here as well. However, I have noticed many LGBT individuals fighting to be as conformist as possible, in their mannerisms, in their goals, etc. For example, many of the MTF individuals here were shocked to learn that many MTF individuals in the US are not exclusively or at all attracted to men and that some have varying degrees of what 'feminine' is. In talking with many lesbians, I have learned that many couples have explicit male/female-wife/husband roles. Same-sex marriage is a top priority in this country, where accused LGBT individuals are still regularly verbally and phsically attacked and many are thrown out of their homes when they come out. Many Nepalis don't even recognize the concept of homosexuality and when they do, it is often associated with pedophilia.
The want to conform is natural for all human beings and many may believe that it is the best way to advance their cause. At this time, the West/Individualistic vs. East/Collectivistic argument will probably be brought out. While it could be argued for (and against) that sensitivity to the community is stronger in many parts of Asia as opposed to Europe and the Americas, 'Asians' are not mindless drones who seek to constantly replicate those around them. They are individuals who have individual needs and, i'm assuming, many who will not feel comfortable in this gender binarism.