by Keisha Shakespeare-Blackmore, Staff Reporter

Homosexuality is here to stay. And recently in Jamaica, which is considered to be a highly homophobic society, more homosexuals have been coming out of the closet.

Last month, there was wide-ranging discussion after a number of homosexual commercial sex workers spoke out on a television current affairs programme. Many were astonished that they were so bold while others were angry, stating they were too bold. Others felt a sense of compassion, believing that homosexuals are 'sick' and need help.

Flair solicited the views of experts on whether homosexuals can be cured.

Dr. Asquith Reid, clinical psychologist:

"It depends on how you define it. If you look at it from a religious perspective where homosexuality is seen as wrong and a sin, then certainly, they can be cured.

Also, if it's a matter of choice, then you can choose to or not to engage in such practices. But if you think it is biological, then it would be hard to change.

If it is a learned behaviour that has become integral to your being, then it's just as deep as if it were hereditary. It also depends on the will power. Some people are better able to control their behaviour than others. Thus, it may be said that those who cannot control theirs are bad because they continue with a behaviour that is socially unacceptable.

'Moral fibre'

While it is dangerous in our context to be open with the practice, it speaks of 'moral fibre' for the person who can stand up for what he or she believes.

However, if we are speaking of inclination or propensity to be attracted to the same sex, then perhaps it may not be a changeable behaviour. It is always a toss-up of what is right or wrong.

The problem we have is that many are not prepared to accept other people's behaviour even when it does not concern or touch them. One must ask: Why do people take it up on themselves to be God and make it affect them in such a way that they try to injure or kill someone doing this? Why is God not doing this?"

A homosexual's view:

Chris, 24 years old, is acommercial sex worker who sells his body to men. He is from an inner-city community in Kingston. When Flair asked Chris if he believe homosexuals could be 'cured', his immediate response was "Yes".

Not born like this

"I believe that homosexuals can be cured because we were not born like this. It is just the mentality, and often a homosexual is like a child who sees certain things and wants a certain lifestyle. Plus, some will go the extra mile just to get what they want," he continued.

In Chris' case, over three years ago he wanted a pair of shoes and his friends introduced him to the streets, where he remains today. He states, however, that he has other gay friends who have changed their lifestyle because they got tired of this way of life.

"I believe I can and will change one day but mi nah go lie to yu still, not right now because of my needs."

He pointed out that we must not be fooled because some people don't want to change, but some will fight their urges by taking up Christianity.

Names changed on request.