gee 103

Midterm
Tasks
SUBMITTED BY:
VICTORIA P. CABORNIDA
 ESSAY DESCRIBING THE
VALUES/LIFESTYLE OF YOUR GAY/LESBIAN
FRIEND

Initially, the journey of self-realization for our gay and lesbian friends is shrouded in secrecy
and guardedness. Like precious treasures hidden beneath layers of protective armor, their
true identities remain concealed, shielded from the scrutiny and judgment of the outside
world. In the shadows of their own minds, doubts and insecurities swirl, fueled by the fear of
rejection and the relentless pressure to conform to heteronormative standards.

As friends, we stand witness to the silent struggle that unfolds within their hearts, offering
unwavering support and understanding as they navigate the turbulent waters of self-
discovery. Our friendship becomes a sanctuary—a safe haven where they can shed their
masks and reveal the raw, unfiltered truth of their identities. Through subtle gestures of
acceptance and inclusivity, we create a nurturing environment where they feel emboldened
to explore the depths of their souls without fear of judgment or rejection.

With each passing day, our gay and lesbian friends embrace their identities with increasing
confidence and pride, reclaiming ownership of their narratives and refusing to be bound by
the constraints of societal norms. No longer constrained by the fear of judgment or rejection,
they navigate the world with a sense of purpose and self-assurance, unapologetically
celebrating their unique identities and forging meaningful connections with others who share
their journey.

As friends, we bear witness to their transformation, marveling at the resilience and strength
that lies within each of them. Their journey serves as a poignant reminder of the power of
authenticity and the importance of creating spaces of acceptance and inclusion where
individuals can truly thrive. Through their courage and unwavering resolve, they inspire us
to embrace our own truths and to stand boldly in the light of our authenticity, unafraid to let
our true selves shine.

The journey of self-discovery among our gay and lesbian friends is a testament to the
transformative power of acceptance, understanding, and unconditional love. Through the
trials and triumphs of their journey, they teach us the invaluable lesson that true liberation
lies in embracing our authentic selves and refusing to be confined by the expectations of
others. In celebrating their identities with courage and pride, they pave the way for a more
inclusive and compassionate world—one where diversity is celebrated, and every individual
is free to live their truth without fear or shame.
DIFFERENT
CONTRIBUTIONS
OF GAY/LESBIANS
IN THE SOCIETY
Gay and lesbian individuals have made significant contributions to
society across various fields, enriching our communities and
advancing social progress. Here are some notable areas where their
contributions have been particularly impactful:

Advocacy and Activism: Gay and lesbian individuals have been

at the forefront of advocacy and activism for LGBTQ+ rights.
From the Stonewall riots to the fight for marriage equality, their
activism has paved the way for legal and social recognition of
LGBTQ+ rights worldwide. Through organizations, protests, and
grassroots movements, they have challenged discrimination and
prejudice, promoting equality and inclusion for all.

Arts and Culture: Gay and lesbian artists, writers, musicians,

and performers have played a significant role in shaping arts and
culture. Their creative expressions often reflect their unique
perspectives and lived experiences, contributing to a more
diverse and inclusive cultural landscape. From influential
writers like Oscar Wilde and Virginia Woolf to iconic musicians
like Elton John and Freddie Mercury, their contributions have
left an indelible mark on the arts.

Science and Innovation: In the fields of science, technology,

engineering, and mathematics (STEM), gay and lesbian
individuals have made groundbreaking discoveries and
innovations. Despite facing challenges related to discrimination
and prejudice, they have excelled in their respective fields,
contributing to advancements in medicine, technology, and
beyond. Their diverse perspectives and talents have enriched
scientific discourse and fueled innovation.

Social Services and Healthcare: Gay and lesbian individuals

have played vital roles in providing social services and
healthcare to marginalized communities. Through advocacy
organizations, nonprofit groups, and healthcare institutions, they
have worked to address the unique needs and challenges faced
by LGBTQ+ individuals, including access to healthcare, mental
health support, and social services. Their efforts have helped
improve the well-being and quality of life for countless
individuals.

Education and Mentorship: Gay and lesbian individuals have

been influential educators and mentors, inspiring future
generations and fostering inclusive learning environments.
Through teaching, mentorship programs, and LGBTQ+ student
organizations, they have provided support and guidance to
LGBTQ+ youth and allies, helping them navigate challenges and
embrace their identities with pride. Their contributions have
helped create more inclusive educational spaces and promote
understanding and acceptance.
DIFFERENT
CONTRIBUTIONS
OF GAY/LESBIANS
IN THE SOCIETY

As a student surrounded by a diverse group of

friends, I've come to appreciate the remarkable
contributions of gays and lesbians peers to society.
Their advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, creativity in arts
and culture, and achievements in fields like science
and education have left an undeniable mark on the
world around us.

First and foremost, their unwavering commitment to

advocacy and activism has inspired me. Through
their courage in speaking out against discrimination,
they've helped challenge societal norms and pave the
way for a more inclusive and accepting society. Their
efforts have sparked important conversations and
pushed for tangible change in laws and policies.

Moreover, LGBTQ+ have significantly enriched our

cultural landscape. From literature to music to film,
their creative expressions reflect their unique
perspectives and experiences. Their storytelling has
opened my eyes to new narratives and fostered a
deeper understanding of the diversity of human
identity.

In addition, their achievements in fields such as

science, healthcare, and education are equally
commendable. Despite facing obstacles, they've
excelled in their respective fields, making
groundbreaking discoveries and fostering inclusive
environments for learning and growth. The
contributions gays and lesbians serve as a powerful
reminder of the importance of embracing diversity
and standing up for equality. As I continue my
journey as a student, I'm grateful for the opportunity
to learn from their experiences and celebrate the
unique gifts they bring to our world.
 ESSAY: SHOULD I TELL MY PARENTS
THAT I AM GAY/LESBIAN?

The decision to disclose one's sexual orientation to parents, particularly as a gay or lesbian
individual, is a deeply personal and multifaceted process, fraught with a complex interplay of
emotions, familial expectations, and societal norms. As a student with close ties to LGBTQ+
friends, I've observed the intricate dance of hesitation and resolve that characterizes this
pivotal moment in their lives. The question looms large: should they tell their parents?

On one hand, the impulse towards honesty and authenticity propels individuals towards
disclosure. There exists an innate desire to share one's true self with those closest to them,
fostering deeper connections and affirming a sense of integrity. The belief in the fundamental
right of parents to know their child's identity, coupled with the aspiration for familial
acceptance and support, serves as a compelling motivator. It is an acknowledgment of the
dignity of truth, a recognition that concealing one's sexual orientation may ultimately
undermine the integrity of familial relationships.

However, the prospect of coming out to parents is tinged with apprehension and uncertainty.
Fear of rejection, condemnation, or estrangement weighs heavily on the minds of LGBTQ+
individuals, casting a shadow over the prospect of disclosure. The specter of potential
repercussions—ranging from emotional turmoil to outright hostility—haunts their
deliberations, amplifying the stakes of their decision. Cultural and religious beliefs, ingrained
societal prejudices, and familial dynamics further complicate the calculus, rendering the act
of coming out a delicate balancing act between authenticity and self-preservation.

Yet, amidst the tumult of conflicting emotions and considerations, there exists a glimmer of
hope—a conviction that honesty, even in the face of adversity, is a beacon of light illuminating
the path towards genuine acceptance and understanding. While the journey of coming out
may be fraught with challenges, it also offers the promise of liberation and self-actualization.
It is a testament to the resilience and courage of LGBTQ+ individuals, who navigate the
uncertain terrain of identity with grace and determination.

In conclusion, the decision to come out to one's parents as gay or lesbian encapsulates the
profound tension between authenticity and self-preservation, honesty and fear. It is a deeply
personal journey, shaped by individual circumstances, familial dynamics, and cultural
influences. While the path forward may be uncertain, it is imbued with the hope that truth,
however daunting, has the power to forge deeper connections and pave the way towards
genuine acceptance and love.
 WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE A VICTIM OF
SEXUAL HARASSMENT?

Sexual harassment is a deeply distressing experience that can leave victims feeling violated, vulnerable, and
unsure of how to proceed. Yet, amidst the turmoil, there are steps that individuals can take to address the
situation and seek support. As someone who understands the gravity of this issue, I believe it's essential to
outline actionable steps for victims of sexual harassment to navigate through this challenging ordeal.

First and foremost, it's crucial to recognize and acknowledge the reality of the situation. Sexual harassment is
never acceptable and is a violation of one's rights and dignity. Victims must understand that they are not at
fault and deserve to be treated with respect and decency, regardless of the circumstances.

Documentation plays a pivotal role in addressing sexual harassment. Keeping detailed records of the
incidents, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses present, provides tangible evidence that can
substantiate the victim's claims. This documentation not only strengthens the case but also serves as a source of
validation for the victim's experiences.

Seeking support is paramount in coping with the aftermath of sexual harassment. Whether it's confiding in
trusted friends, family members, or colleagues, or seeking professional guidance from a counselor or therapist,
reaching out for support can help victims navigate through the complex emotions and challenges they face.
Emotional support provides a crucial lifeline for victims as they process their experiences and explore their
options for recourse.

Reporting the harassment is a significant step towards holding perpetrators accountable and seeking justice.
Victims should feel empowered to report the harassment to the appropriate authority within their
organization or institution, such as human resources, supervisors, or school administrators. By following the
reporting procedures outlined by their organization and providing detailed information about the incidents,
victims can initiate the process of investigation and resolution.

Exploring legal options is another avenue available to victims of sexual harassment. Consulting with a lawyer
who specializes in sexual harassment cases can help victims understand their rights and options for legal
recourse. Whether through filing a lawsuit or seeking mediation, legal action can provide victims with a sense
of empowerment and validation as they seek accountability for the harm inflicted upon them.

Self-care is paramount throughout this challenging journey. Victims must prioritize their physical and
emotional well-being by engaging in activities that promote relaxation, stress relief, and self-compassion.
Taking care of oneself is not only an act of self-preservation but also a testament to resilience and strength in
the face of adversity.

In conclusion, being a victim of sexual harassment is a traumatic and distressing experience, but it's essential
to remember that there are steps victims can take to address the situation and seek support. By recognizing
the reality of the harassment, documenting the incidents, seeking support, reporting the harassment,
exploring legal options, and prioritizing self-care, victims can navigate through the aftermath with
resilience and determination. Together, we must stand in solidarity with victims of sexual harassment and
work towards creating a society where such behavior is unequivocally condemned and justice is pursued for
all victims.