It is a truth universally acknowledged that dating is hard! It is harder when you are a queer person as their so much prejudice and ignorance when it comes to the LGBTQIA+ community. So, this pride month we decided to reach out to queer folks and talk about their experiences of dating in today’s world.
In the last couple of years, the world of dating has changed and the love of your life is just a swipe away. However, does it mean dating has become more inclusive as well? Let’s find out.
Exasperating AF!
Honestly, it is frustrating! I identify as a bisexual woman and for most people, it means I am down for a threesome. I can’t tell how many times I have been asked by a couple to be their unicorn. There are so many stereotypes attached to being a bi woman and after a point, I just gave up on the dating apps.
— Anonymous, 34
From Acceptance To Situationship
I didn’t date anyone for most of my 20s, I was constantly worried about my parents’ reaction if they got to know about me. Then eventually I came out to them and slowly their acceptance helped me to date as a gay man in India. I am not in a relationship, but I do have a situationship with someone. So, fingers crossed!
— Krishna (name changed on request), 29
Making The World A Better Place
It has been two years since the Supreme Court struck down the draconian Article 377 that criminalised gay sex and it has been a tough journey. The dating scene is getting better honestly, my partner and I do a lot of get-togethers for other members of the queer community. It feels incredible that we can do it now.
—Rohan & Aditya, 25,28
Journey Of Self-Realisation
I was always confused about my orientation but I think dating apps helped me to figure out things for myself. Dating is tricky for everyone. I mostly get in touch with the LGBTQA+ community folks via social media and that has worked out pretty well. Though going out and meeting people in a public space is always daunting.
—Priya (name changed on request), 28
And The Dark Side
Being a transwoman, I have faced the worst when it comes to dating in India. People are uneducated but they are often curious about how it will feel like sleeping with a transwoman. I have been in some really scary situations because of this. For now, I am not dating at all.
— Anonymous, 29
Heartbreaking!
I am mostly too scared to date. A friend of mine was on a date with his boyfriend in a bar and things turned really violent when men around them started abusing them and even assaulted my friend. So, I don’t know if I’ll ever feel comfortable enough to even ask someone for a date.
—Rishi, 22
Slowly the dating scene in India is becoming more inclusive but when it comes to Queer dating, we have a long way to go. This pride month, let’s just remember #loveislove and celebrate everything that makes us who we are without any shame or judgement. Here’s hoping for a better tomorrow!
Feature Image Credit: Pexels
