Upholding traditional values: Case against entertaining LGBTQIA+
Ghana, known for its rich cultural heritage and strong traditional values, is currently facing a heated debate on whether it should accept and entertain the LGBTQIA+ community within its borders.
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This is evident in the Anti-gay bill before Parliament.
While calls for inclusivity and diversity are important aspects of a progressive society, it is crucial to consider the context of Ghana's unique cultural landscape and the potential impact on social cohesion and traditional values.
Religious beliefs, cultural heritage
With a significant Christian, Muslim and traditional population, Ghana strongly holds religious beliefs that overwhelmingly reject homosexuality.
The major religious doctrines in the country categorically consider LGBTQIA+ relationships or activities as sinful or immoral, based on scriptural interpretations.
Accepting and entertaining the LGBTQIA+ community would be perceived by many Ghanaians as a direct violation of deeply held religious values, potentially leading to social unrest and a widening societal divide.
Ghana proudly celebrates its diverse cultural heritage, with each ethnic group contributing unique traditions, customs and social norms.
The majority of Ghanaians believe that same-sex relationships and practices are incongruent with their cultural values.
Tradition encompasses the notion that procreation through heterosexual relationships is essential for the survival of Ghanaian society and the respect for elders and ancestors.
Embracing LGBTQIA+ individuals and their lifestyle choices would be seen as diluting these long-standing cultural values.
Historical perspective
Indeed, Ghana's struggle for independence and liberation from colonial rule was anchored on the values of self-determination, national identity and cultural pride.
Accepting and entertaining the LGBTQIA+ community may be perceived by some Ghanaians as an imposition of Western values, reminiscent of the colonial era.
Consequently, this could undermine the nation's hard-won independence and undermine its cultural identity.
Public health concerns
As a developing country, Ghana faces several pressing public health challenges.
The focus should be on tackling issues such as healthcare disparities, infectious diseases and maternal and child mortality.
Allocating resources towards LGBTQIA+ causes, which some argue are lifestyle choices, could divert already limited resources and hinder progress in addressing these pressing public health concerns.
Prioritising LGBTQIA+ rights could lead to resentment among the general population and hinder necessary progress on public health issues.
Social cohesion
Ghanaian society is built on strong communal values, where family and social structures play a central role.
Acceptance and equality for LGBTQIA+ individuals may disrupt these structures, causing significant social tension and potentially jeopardising stability.
Societal acceptance should be gradual and organic, allowing time for constructive dialogue, education and understanding to foster a more inclusive environment for all Ghanaians in a manner that is respectful to traditional values.
It is crucial to recognise the repercussions that Ghana could face by rejecting the LGBTQIA+ ideology.
This decision may lead to Ghana being isolated by both the Western and international communities, resulting in a lack of investment, loans and potentially even trade embargoes on interactions with the country.
Conclusion
Throughout history, Ghana has relied on aid, foreign direct investment (FDI), loans and various forms of assistance.
However, despite these efforts, the country continues to struggle with underdevelopment.
In light of this, Ghana should remain steadfast in its decision and not be swayed by the threats made by organisations like the World Bank to Uganda or the statements made by the USA Ambassador to Ghana, which may be seen as empty words.
Instead, Ghana should view these threats as an opportunity for self-reliance.
By standing firm in its values and principles, the country can carve its own path and achieve positive outcomes in the future.
An example that Ghana can look to for inspiration is the story of Singapore.
When Singapore was forced to separate from its alliance with Malaysia, its founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, shed tears.
However, today, Singapore stands as an independent nation and has become a renowned case study for its remarkable development.
In summary, by staying true to our convictions, Ghana may face isolation and potential economic consequences from the Western and International communities.
However, this should be seen as a chance for Ghana to pursue self-reliance and ultimately achieve success and development, just as Singapore has managed to do.
The writer is a filmmaker and management/advertising practitioner.
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