One of the reasons for lack of gay Traveller role models is that most the people who are gay and might well be good role models are not known to be gay. This is one reason for coming out of the closet. It generally helps all gay people when people can look at a person who is their friend, co-worker family member, etc. and realize that he is no different from anyone else, even though he may be gay.
I think the issue facing gays travellers is basically a civil rights issue, and the people in our generation have to have courage to be the first ones to take a seat at the front of the bus, as Rosa Parks did in the civil rights movement for blacks in America. Of course, a lot of gay people have come out of the closet, but more haven't, especially in both the Travelling community.
We do need good gay role models. Sure many straight people don't offer much to their own kind in the way of being role models, but there are among them mothers, fathers, teachers, professionals, sisters, brothers, etc. who make positive impressions on the people in their own circles. We, gay people, could do the same for young gay Traveller men and women who are having such a hard time accepting themselves and honouring their culture. The first and most important step in that regard is for us to completely accept ourselves and come to terms with who we are. Only then can we make a positive way forward.
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