WITHOUT FEAR

The Journey of an LGBTQIA+ Teacher in City High

Some members of the LGBTQIA+ community have been hiding behind shadows to escape society’s judgment. Some of them found it hard to open up to their loved ones and the community for fear of being looked down upon, discriminated, converted, or even hurt because of who they are. But not to one of our seasoned teachers in SJCNHS.

Sir Jay-R C. Soriano, a Master Teacher from the Technology and Livelihood Education Department, is a teacher who is a fearless LGBTQIA+ member. In an interview with The Grain, he shared his experiences and journey as we widen our perspectives.

“Noong bata ako, hindi ako ‘yung makikita mo na may sign na ganoon ako. Naramdaman ko na siya, second year college,” Soriano said. Back in that day, he joined organizations and discovered that he had a personality that is not very common among others. That's when he found out that he was attracted to people of the same sex in his university. While working in Manila, he made a lot of friends whom he met through a clan that trended way back to his college days. He also joined events and programs about HIV to provide care for those affected and to spread information, making it their main advocacy.

“Noong time na ‘yun, wala akong mapagsabihan na iba. Even though second year college na, mayroon pa rin iyong mga doubts na lumalabas,” he added.

There are still "hows" and "whys" lingering in his minds that question his worth before he can express himself freely. In fact, he didn't even realize that he showed it without a single word. As he expressed himself freely, his friends accepted him wholeheartedly and appreciated his personality.

Things were different in his home though. The negative reaction from his loved ones has become a hindrance for him to come out totally. Even though there’s a negativity, he still accepts and continues living his life toward his goals.

“Feeling ko naman kasi, I am already satisfied and successful kung ano ang meron sa akin ngayon. Just go with the flow. Ang simbahan nga tanggap na ang mga LGBTQIA+ natin, ang pinagbabawal lang ng simbahan ay gumawa ng labag sa mata ng Diyos,” Soriano claimed.

Life may not always be favorable for sir Jay-R concerning his sexuality, but he continues to walk fearless, unapologetic, and that is what matters.