Exploring Sexual Identity and Oppression in Modern Iran

What is liberation if we are not allowing people to be themselves? To be complex and paradoxical at times? To be fundamentally human? To exist? To be diverse representations of themselves? To transgress beyond defined spaces both imagined and unimagined and social constructs that cultivate oppression? The book Exiled for Love, by the author Ashram Parsi, addresses the contemporary phenomenon that takes a toll on the various forms of discrimination which Lesbians, Gay, Bisexual, heterosexual and all other sexual identities encounter in modern day Iran. In addition to such forms of discrimination, which include severe exploitation, torture, and imprisonment, the book addresses the dilemma of gendered violence and intersectionality. Likewise,

Ther theory of tolerance goes in line with certain aspects of the book. In her words, she defines subalterns, as a diversity of identities and the range of practices that cannot be captured within the abbreviation of LGBT.Initially, the concept of tolerance was to protect the rights of religious minorities and ensure their security. However, as the idea of being ‘’different’’ flows in a society, she conveys it is considered foreign . Under that circumstance, she contends that religious foundations would unlikely tolerate sex workers, homosexuals and may continue to deny certain human rights and benefits which heterosexuals are entitled. Through her theory of tolerance I understand, in terms of gender that individuals are able to live a tolerable life if and only their rights are not deviant from the rigid expectation, in regards to race, class and gender. Moreover, looking at the political representation of women, gender, and the LGBT. In continents such as Africa, attitudes towards homosexuality are viewed very negatively. There is no tolerance towards LGBT individuals in Africa. In fact, as an African descendant, laws in many African countries concerning LGBT are much stricter. Thereupon, individuals who are caught engaging in sexual practices and behaviours such as adult and consensual premarital, are publicly harassed, berated and imprisoned. In effect, individuals who identify themselves as gay, hide under until the umbrella of marriage in order to conform to the societal pressure. Such as the life of ashrams friend, in chapter eight. Ali. ‘’Ali, I don’t understand. You told me that you are gay. Why did you get married’’ (PG.51 Laws in many African countries against LGBT are much