As a proud Kapampangan, I am heartened by the recent display of courage and respect by members of our local Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community who stood against the sacrilegious antics of drag performer, Pura Luka Vega.
In a crass, reckless performance, Vega exploited the sanctity of “Ama Namin” or The Lord's Prayer, a sacred verse for millions of devout Filipinos. This act, while ostensibly a form of self-expression, was offensive and distasteful. It caused distress and disapproval, not only among the wider public but also within the LGBT community as well.
What followed was an uplifting display of unity, respect, and the pursuit of dignity by the Kapampangan LGBT community. Many members from these sector that I personally know, took to social media to express their disapproval of Vega's performance. They made it clear that such acts do not represent the LGBT community, nor are they indicative of the norms and values that the community stands for.
One gay netizen poignantly commented, "Ginagamit pang sandata ang pagka-LGBT at expression of art. Kaya hindi tayo nirerespeto eh. Marunong din dapat tayo rumespeto sa ibang sektor ng lipunan." ("The audacity to use our LGBT identity and expression of art as a weapon. This is why we are not respected by others. We should know how to respect other sectors of society.") This statement encapsulates the real essence of the issue. Freedom of expression should not be a license to disrespect the beliefs and values of others.
Another gay netizen highlighted the wider implications of such acts, "Sa ginawa mong iyan, lalo nang mahirapan ipasa ang SOGIE bill." ("What you did makes it even harder to pass the SOGIE bill.") This points to the potential harm that such actions can have on the broader fight for LGBT rights.
In the world of drag, performers often walk a thin line between challenging societal norms and causing outrage. Pura Vega's recent antic during her 'Ama Namin' presentation is a clear example of crossing that line. Drag, as an art form, has a history of challenging societal norms and stereotypes, often with a blend of humor, satire, and glamour. However, it's essential to understand that the freedom to express oneself artistically does not mean the freedom to disrespect or offend others, particularly when it comes to religious beliefs.
Artists, including drag performers, have the right to use their art to express their thoughts and emotions, and even to provoke discussions about uncomfortable topics. However, when it comes to religion—a deeply personal and sacred aspect of people's lives—there are limits. While it's true that art does often provoke, it should do so constructively, encouraging dialogue and understanding rather than causing distress and hurt. Pura Vega's performance, unfortunately, did not serve this purpose.
Blasphemy, in any form, cannot be justified as artistic freedom or expression. It's a direct assault on the religious sentiments of individuals, a blatant disregard for the sanctity of religious practices and beliefs that people hold dear. It is one thing to challenge societal norms and quite another to ridicule religious practices under the guise of entertainment.
In a world where we are striving for greater tolerance, understanding, and respect for diversity, such antics are not only disrespectful but also harmful. They deepen divides instead of bridging them, and they spread hurt instead of understanding. Art should be a platform for discussion, a medium through which we can understand different perspectives and grow as a society. However, respect for others' beliefs and sentiments should always be a guiding principle. Pura Vega's performance did not adhere to this principle.
Although artistic expression has the power to enlighten and challenge norms, it should never be an excuse to offend or disrespect others. What Vega did was not art—it was blasphemy, and it should not be celebrated or encouraged. We should seek for a more respectful and understanding society where art enriches our lives and brings us closer together rather than driving us apart.
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Kuya J Pelayo IV is a Kapampangan broadcast journalist. For comments and suggestions, e-mail at 4th.pelayo@gmail.com