Mercy Kamanja, a fervent advocate for Scotland’s independence and a champion against various forms of discrimination, has shared her insights on the challenges of raising children in an era where discussions about LGBTQ identities have moved from the margins to the mainstream.
This issue resonates deeply with many in the diaspora who find themselves navigating unfamiliar cultural terrain far from their ancestral homes. Kamanja’s perspective is informed by her Kikuyu heritage, where the practice of naming children after grandparents serves to preserve familial lineage. However, she acknowledges that as these children grow and become educated, they may sometimes assert gender identities that their parents had not foreseen. She acknowledges that while this situation might catch parents off guard, it is a reality they must face and address.
In her political advocacy work, Kamanja has encountered a wide spectrum of discrimination, ranging from gender bias in leadership to institutional racism and the marginalization of asylum seekers. She maintains a resolute stance against all forms of prejudice, including those targeting women, individuals with disabilities, and the LGBTQ community. Kamanja’s experiences have led her to observe instances of hypocrisy within society, particularly noting how systemic issues such as paedophilia have at times been obscured by appeals to tradition or religion.
When contemplating how she would react if her own child were to come out as gay, Kamanja admits it would be shocking, even humorously suggesting it might induce a “cardiac arrest.” Yet, her approach to parenting in this evolving world demonstrates a balance between maintaining cultural values and embracing societal changes. Beyond her advocacy work, Kamanja is actively involved in community projects aimed at supporting marginalized groups. Her efforts encompass organizing cultural integration workshops, assisting asylum seekers, and lobbying for policy changes to address systemic discrimination. These endeavours have earned her recognition both within and beyond the diaspora community.
The perspectives on LGBTQ+ acceptance within African diaspora communities vary widely. Some respondents express outright rejection, with one stating they would disown a gay child and questioning where such behavior could have been learned. Others show conditional tolerance, accepting LGBTQ+ individuals in society but not within their own families. However, more empathetic views also emerge, with some parents prioritizing love and support for their children regardless of sexual orientation.
Some parents express relief at not having to navigate this issue, while others recognize the need for adaptation in changing times. The debate extends beyond personal spheres to political and religious domains, as evidenced by recent anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in Kenya and Uganda.
Mila au mambo ya “LGBTQ” ni…
Mila au mambo ya “LGBTQ” ni mila zilizo na asili na wazaliwa wa Yuropu.
She’s definitely a liberal…
She’s definitely a liberal.
Look how she invested in bleach!
Thank you for your comments…
Thank you for your comments. To clarify, how did you ascertain the writer has bleached themselves? Do you know whether they are mixed race or not? Judging others is something our society need to drop. The article is urging parents to be vigilant of what their children have access to in the advent of modern technology, it is important that parents are conscious of what information our children consume.
Further, the writer is giving out their opinions and it would be great if you share your views objectively. Personally, I see no harm if lgbt communities could do their things quietly in their home and in their space in discrete. Nobody is bothered about their sexual orientation. However, I believe they rub it to our face as a way to fight for acceptance in the society. Unfortunately some end up getting killed in the process.
God created people the way he deemed fit and only God knows why and only God should judge mankind. We are not the lamb that was slain for the sins of the world. We are not the messiah. Who are we to question another person yet we all have equal rights to live at the mercy of God? The article is not suggesting anything else over and above, and I think the original title of the article is changed.
In my view, Sometimes parents think that giving their children modern phones and access to technological gadgets including games consoles is a way to express love. Today young people could be listening to clips encouraging them to commit suicide. Limiting or becoming aware what our kids watch on social media is key, in addition, becoming best friends of our children so as they can tell us everything. People stay together through perseverance with their perfect and imperfections. Try that sometimes and you will see it works. We must find ways to coexist in a civil manner without judging others. How about we let people be and stay on our lane, focusing on our purpose. Thank you.
Look at Her?trying to Turn…
Look at Her?trying to Turn Abnormality into Normalcy. Kichwa maji!?
As we advocate for human…
As we advocate for human rights, let us also advocate for language rights.
They should go hand in hand.
The mother tongue will be very useful in explaining and navigating issues and all other new found rights.
Let us start teaching mother tongue’s in primary schools.
Thank you for boldly sharing…
Thank you for boldly sharing this. Love covers a multitude of sins even if it means loving at a distance. Let us leave judging to the Maker, no one is appointed to Judge the world yet!!!