Friday, March 10, 2023

SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND GENDER IDENTITY EXPRESSION

The Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Expression (SOGIE) bill is a proposed piece of legislation designed to protect individuals from discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Despite its noble intentions, the bill has faced significant opposition from various sectors, particularly those with religious affiliations. This writing argues that many religious people who object to the SOGIE bill are hypocrites who do not practice what they preach, and their objections are based on ignorance or a lack of understanding of the purpose and importance of the proposed law.

Religion is frequently associated with values including such harmony, absolutely adore, and knowledge. When it comes to the SOGIE bill, however, many religious people appear to have forgotten these values. Instead, they use their faith as an alternative to prejudice and ostracize those around who are not on the same visible spectrum as them. For example, some Christian groups have argued that the bill contradicts their beliefs and promotes immorality, despite the fact that SOGIE applies to everyone, not just LGBT individuals. They argue that the bill undermines traditional family structures and promotes same-sex relationships, which they consider sinful and immoral.

However, these objections are based on a narrow interpretation of religious teachings and a lack of understanding of the complexities of human sexuality and gender identity. The SOGIE bill does not promote any specific sexual orientation or gender identity. Instead, it seeks to protect individuals from discrimination, harassment, and violence based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. It recognizes that people have different sexual orientations and gender identities, and that these differences should be respected and protected.

Furthermore, the objections of religious people to the SOGIE bill are often hypocritical. Many of these people claim to promote peace, love, and understanding, yet they actively discriminate against individuals who do not conform to their narrow views of gender and sexuality. They preach about the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, yet they fail to practice what they preach when it comes to the SOGIE bill.

Moreover, the objections of religious people to the SOGIE bill are often based on a lack of understanding of the separation of church and state. In many countries, including the Philippines, the government is supposed to be separated from religion. This means that the government should not favor any particular religion or impose religious beliefs on its citizens. The SOGIE bill is a secular law designed to protect the human rights of all individuals, regardless of their religious beliefs.

In concluding, religious opposition to the SOGIE bill is quite often illogical and based on a narrow interpretation of religious doctrines. They fail to recognize the importance of protecting all individuals' human rights, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. As an outcome, it is critical that the government pass the SOGIE bill in order to protect individuals from discrimination and marginalization. Furthermore, religious leaders should be more inclusive in their precepts and promote understanding and acceptance of all people, regardless of their differences. Only then will we be able to call ourselves citizens of a society that values unity, love, and acceptance.

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Baguio City, Philippines

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