Creating safe spaces is crucial in improving the quality of life of the LGBTQ+ community. In the fourth edition of its annual Pride Conversations, Google Philippines led a discussion featuring YouTube creators on the importance of allyship and the role of safe spaces online and offline.
“Pride Conversations, which uses the power of LGBTQ+ stories to create allyship, is part of Google’s deep commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Aside from this annual event, Google supports and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community through an inclusive workplace culture and benefits, product features and policies, humanitarian grants, and so much more,” said Mervin Wenke, Communications and Public Affairs Head at Google Philippines.
Hosted by Miss Trans Global 2020, actress, writer, and content creator Mela Habijan, the event delved into the inspiring stories of LGBTQ+ YouTube creators Marina Summers, Johnreyslife, JM Banquicio, Levi Reyes and Sara De Guzman.
With the rise of platforms such as YouTube, many find solace in the content shared by LGBTQ+ creators. For beauty creator Johnreyslife, YouTube helps her live authentically and makes a difference in the beauty space. “I used to face discrimination and hate for simply being ‘morena’ and ‘trans’. Now because of YouTube and content creation, I’m able to break barriers in the beauty sphere and be a face of representation.”
Sara De Guzman of DarlingsPH said that their digital journal for biking trips eventually grew to a supportive community that shares the same interests as her and her partner, Levi Reyes. “Putting content out there drives a powerful message that we are for inclusivity. We are queer people who are part of this vibrant community, and they love us for who we are, they accept us, and most of all, they respect us for who we are,” she added.
Creating safe spaces is also important for young LGBTQ+ kids who are still exploring their identity. It’s why drag queen and Drag Race Philippines contestant Marina Summers started her YouTube mini-series “Chasing the Sun,” where she showcases the art form of drag and the behind the scenes of her performances.
“It’s a way for me to pat that little Marina on the back because she can finally watch herself on screen. This is also for the LGBTQ+ kids like me who are looking for people they can identify with on TV and social media,” Marina said.
JM Banquicio’s travel vlog started out as a fun hobby outside of his corporate job. Now, he regularly uploads his trips on YouTube, and he cited his family as one of his main motivators. “It’s different when your family supports what you’re doing. You can do anything if you have the support of your allies,” he said.
Allies can come in many forms. They can be family, friends, colleagues, an influential figure, and others. They help make sure that LGBTQ+ people feel accepted, and allow them to live authentically and fearlessly, especially in a conservative country like the Philippines.
