AUGUST 2012 marked the fiftieth anniversary of independence for two Caribbean nations, Jamaica and Trinidad. As Caribbeans everywhere celebrated these two milestones, let us use this occasion to reflect on the struggles of sexual minorities in the two countries. Emancipation from personal fears and the vestiges of former colonial mores are paramount as we move forward in the new millennium. Far too often the voices of GLBT people go unheard, especially in a region where homophobia is woven into the cultural fabric. The Caribbean has its share of sexual minorities and, by right, must be protected under law.
Most indie music fans can recall the sultry, soulful sounds of Diana King when she débuted her hit single “Shy Guy” on the movie soundtrack for Bad Boys. Diana King’s musical style embodies a fusion of dance, reggae, pop, and soul.
Jamaica has long held the reputation as the most homophobic nation in the western hemisphere; but Diana King’s arrival has permanently altered the anti-gay image, and to some extent the reality, of Jamaica. The moment of drama came when King shared a note on her Facebook page titled “Yes I Am Lesbian.” Her coming out is changing the attitude toward homosexuality throughout the Caribbean and above all in her native Jamaica. Her announcement was the single most momentous event in recent memory in Jamaica, comparable to legendary Bob Marley’s “One Love Peace” concert at which he closed his set by joining hands with then Prime Minister Manley and Jamaica’s Labor Party leader Edward Seaga. 
Diana King’s “celebration of her lesbianism” has altered the sociopolitical dynamics of Jamaica and given an identity to Caribbean GLBT people everywhere. They, in turn, are petitioning the government for legal recognition of their status and for the repeal of anti-sodomy laws that criminalize homosexual behavior.
Ths interview was conducted through a series of e-mail exchanges shortly after Ms. King came out on Facebook last year.
Karen Bobb: Where did you spend most of your formative years?
Diana King: I was born and raised in Spanish Town, the first capital of Jamaica. I later moved to Kingston and lived there until I became a U.S. resident in 2000. I now hold dual citizenship in both countries.
KB: What does your family think about your lesbianism?
DK: I don’t know and I don’t care. I’ve never been close to my biological family. It’s the price they paid for rejecting and labeling me a “rebel” or “weirdo.” But the few I connected with in my immediate family love me unconditionally. I believe “family” are the friends you choose.
KB: When did you first respond to lesbian erotica?
DK: It’s a funny story, so I’ll just give you a little piece. I’ve always held strong sexual feelings for women but never really explored it. I’m not a fan of any erotica, but I was 21 years old, in New York City, and working on my first album, Tougher Than Love, for Sony Music. Late one night, after a long, exhausting day in the studio, I was flicking through channels in my hotel room. I felt curious and decided to watch some lesbian erotica and whoa, I was up all night! The morning after, I certainly knew that I am unashamedly lesbian. Ironically, the next day I wrote “Shy Guy,” which is all about me.
KB: Did you attempt to “pray away your lesbianism”?
DK: No, never. I do not pray. I have shunned religion from about age five. I had too many questions in Sunday School, and due to my inquisitiveness I spent most days outside as punishment for blasphemy. I have always been honest with myself, though, sometimes to a fault. I listen to the voice inside—the good one. It doesn’t always tell you what you want to hear, but you have to trust it. That’s the real you talking, and, who knows, maybe it’s God. Coming to terms with my lesbianism was a process of self-realization and acceptance. Total clarity comes amid unrelenting feelings and societal misperceptions about homosexuality. My desire to be completely authentic was victorious against any fears.
KB: Have you held a significant monogamous relationship with another woman? Is there a special lady in your life?
DK: It’s hard not to talk about a relationship as other than romantic. I’m a little superstitious about sharing intimate details of my personal relationships. Oftentimes when celebrities open up to the public about their personal life, intimate relations tend to become disarrayed. What I will say is, yes, I have had significant lesbian relationships, but since I am also very private, I’ve never felt comfortable discussing it, so I do not. A woman’s gotta have some mystique about her. I do, however, see myself on a veranda, in a rocking chair, old and gray, with my soul woman sitting across from me in the matching chair, reminiscing about the day we met and all the arguments we never thought we’d be laughing about.
KB: What advice can you offer to Caribbeans confronting the reality of homosexuality?
DK: It’s very personal and totally up to you. You must prioritize and decide what type of legacy to leave behind. At some point in life we must take accountability for ourselves. When you choose to be responsible, the universe acknowledges your efforts and assists you on this earthly journey. Just think, one day you will be on your deathbed. Will you be pleased or regret living behind a façade? No one should dictate when a person comes out, but if you really want change in your country, understand that sacrifices are critical steps in social transformation. No one wants to be a martyr, but we must find the courage, take a stand, and demand our God-given rights in our own country. Caribbean lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people are entitled to their human rights. Our struggle is about equal opportunity and the pursuit of individual happiness.
Karen Bobb, originally from Guyana, is an LGBT activist based in Jersey City, NJ.
