Being economically challenged can amplify the issues faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in India. We read several stories about coming out. However, coming out and embracing one’s identity is not a linear act. Sometimes, a particular social and economic standing makes it easier for a few. This article on economics, media & LGBTQIA+ explores the challenges that individuals face today. It also highlights issues that prevent them from coming out about their choices.
Coming out can be liberating for some individuals. However, it can also pose significant risks. It is true, particularly for those who are economically vulnerable or living in environments where LGBTQ+ identities are stigmatised or criminalised. Factors such as financial independence, supportive social networks, and legal protections can significantly influence an individual’s ability to come out safely. Therefore, it’s essential to recognise that the decision to come out is deeply personal and influenced by various intersecting factors, including socioeconomic status.
Economics, media & LGBTQIA+: Survival is a must
Here are some of the truths that define the life of an ordinary person. For them, coming out is not essential. Survival is a must:
Limited employment opportunities
LGBTQ+ individuals face discrimination in the job market, leading to limited employment opportunities. This discrimination can occur during the hiring process or within the workplace itself, affecting their ability to secure stable employment. Due to a lack of social acceptability, many do not complete education and are less qualified for most jobs compared to cis-gendered people.
Lower-income and financial instability
Economic challenges can result in lower income levels for LGBTQ+ individuals, making it difficult to afford necessities such as housing, healthcare, and education. Financial instability can exacerbate feelings of insecurity and stress.
Lack of access to healthcare
Economic constraints may limit access to quality healthcare, including mental health services and gender-affirming healthcare for transgender individuals. Discrimination and lack of understanding from healthcare providers can further compound these challenges.
Family rejection and homelessness
Economic challenges can intersect with familial rejection, leading to homelessness for LGBTQ+ individuals who are economically disadvantaged. Without a supportive family or financial resources, they struggle to find stable housing and face increased vulnerability to exploitation and violence on the streets.
Limited legal protections
In India, LGBTQ+ individuals face legal challenges related to inheritance rights, housing discrimination, and access to government welfare programs. Economic disparities can exacerbate the impact of these legal barriers, further marginalising LGBTQ+ individuals who are already facing financial hardships.
Economics, media & LGBTQIA+: Representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in the media
More stories in OTT, movies and magazines is a positive step towards greater visibility and acceptance. Some of the common factors that make this portrayal myopic are:
Limited representation of economic struggles
While some media may portray LGBTQ+ characters or stories, they often fail to depict the economic challenges many LGBTQ+ individuals face. These depictions overlook issues such as employment discrimination, homelessness, lack of access to healthcare, and financial instability. Unfortunately, it disproportionately affects economically disadvantaged LGBTQ+ individuals.
Economics, media & LGBTQIA+: The stereotypical portrayals
Even the portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters is through stereotypes that do not accurately reflect the diverse experiences within the community. For example, the social situation for homosexual males in urban India is relatively more promising than it is for transgender individuals or lesbian women. The diversity within the community is not shown in our regular narratives. It can perpetuate misconceptions and overshadow the economic hardships faced by many LGBTQ+ individuals.
Inaccessible glamour vs. realities
Glossy magazines and movies may present a glamorous image of LGBTQ+ lifestyles, focusing on affluent or privileged individuals. However, this portrayal often overlooks the economic disparities within the LGBTQ+ community and fails to capture the struggles faced by those who are economically disadvantaged.
Intersectionality
Economic challenges intersect with other forms of marginalisation, such as race, gender identity, and disability, further compounding the disparities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Media representations often fail to capture these intersecting identities and the unique challenges they bring.
Impact of social stigma
Economic challenges for LGBTQ+ individuals are often exacerbated by social stigma and discrimination. It can limit opportunities for employment, education, and housing. Media representations may not adequately address the pervasive impact of stigma on economic well-being within the LGBTQ+ community.
Economics, media & LGBTQIA+: The final thoughts
While media representation of LGBTQ+ individuals is vital for visibility and awareness, it’s essential to recognise that these portrayals often do not fully capture the economic realities faced by many within the community. To truly address the systemic challenges faced by economically disadvantaged LGBTQ+ individuals, it’s crucial to go beyond surface-level representations and advocate for policies and initiatives that promote economic equity and social justice for all members of the community. On the one hand, media inclusion definitely helps us move towards an inclusive society. The problem is deep-rooted. We need to fix our education system, legal framework, employment policies and all other factors that can bring dignity to all, poor or rich, gay or lesbian, single or married, urban or rural.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are based on the writer’s insights, supported by data and resources available both online and offline, as applicable. Changeincontent.com is committed to promoting inclusivity across all forms of content, which we define broadly to include media, policies, law, and history—encompassing all elements that influence the lives of women and gender-queer individuals. Our goal is to promote understanding and advocate for comprehensive inclusivity.
