Global Learning
Travel Guide
Gateway To Gender Issues in Trinidad
Introduction
Talk to a Trinidadian!
We asked our readers what they have always wanted to know about gender and sexualty in Trinidad. Here are real Trinidadians’ responses to your questions!
Gender Issues in Trinidad
Questions and Answers
1) How are women in Trinidad constantly struggling through domestic violence and is there support?
Women in Trinidad face domestic violence and other forms of abuse with a constant rise, luckily, the government has pushed in providing shelters like the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition Against Domestic Violence for these victims.
2) Why were men acknowledged to have a higher advantage over women in education and employment rate?
Even though women had a higher mathematics score than men and the same level of education as men; men had a higher chance of being accepted for job employment and to top universities. In 2013, even men with middle income had an 80% of being employed, while women with middle income had 50% chance of being employed in the labor force.
3) How have women gained opportunities in Trinidad over time?
According to The Global Gender Gap Report 2014, women have gained many opportunities economically, educationally and politically. In terms of economic opportunities, women have a higher income and higher chance of being placed as a professional and technical worker than men. Educationally, females have a higher literacy and enrollment rate in universities. Last but not least, politically, women are seated in the parliament and obtain ministerial level positions over the male population.
4) What is it like to be gay in Trinidad?
The Sexual Offences Act make sex between many couples illegal, and although these laws are not enforced, it is still considered taboo. I live with my partner anyway, but we are discreet about it. My family refers to my partner as my “good friend” and if others know they do not talk about it. The Equal Opportunity Act of 2000, which addresses discrimination based on gender or race actually explicitly excludes sexual orientation from the list, so one of my friends is struggling to find work.
5) Can I travel to Trinidad if I am LGBTQ?
The Immigration Act makes it illegal for LGBTQ people to travel to Trinidad at all. A few groups tried to enforce this to stop Elton John from performing in 2007. Luckily, he was able to travel to the country anyway as this law is not really enforced. Trinidad is a fairly safe destination for gay travelers, however I would advise couples to avoid public displays of affection.
6) Are there groups advocating for LGBTQ rights in Trinidad?
There are! The largest is called the Coalition Advocating for the Inclusion of Sexual Orientation. There is also a group at the University of the West Indies called Safe Space for LGBTQ students. We also have a “pride parade” although it may not look like what you would picture for a parade. It takes place indoors with booths for the different organizations to connect with each other and share their information to attendees.
7) Are there any LGBTQ people represented in Trinidadian government?
There are those in Trinidadian Parliament who are rumored to be gay, but none have spoken publically about this. In 2015 Jowelle De Souza became the first Trans woman to run for parliament. She faced quite a bit of opposition because many religious leaders in Trinidad believed that she would promote a homosexual agenda. Jowelle De Souza is also an activist in Trinidad against police brutality towards trans people. To top it all off she runs a hair salon in San Fernando. She has cut my hair several times!
4) In Trinidad are women widely represented throughout politics?
Women are represented in politics