Ghanaian fashion icon and former music executive, Kofi Okyere-Darko (KOD), has shed light on perceptions surrounding the LGBTQ+ community in the fashion and beauty industries.
Speaking during an interview with Nana Romeo on Accra 100.5 FM’s Ayekoo Ayekoo, KOD challenged the stereotype that LGBTQ+ individuals disproportionately populate these sectors.
“I’ve heard the rumour, but the LGBTQ people are everywhere,” KOD said, addressing the widespread belief.
“I’m sure you’ll even find, after a careful look, gay people in our own Parliament House. It’s not limited to one field or profession.”
KOD emphasized that Ghana’s cultural stance against homosexuality often prevents open discussions about the presence of LGBTQ+ individuals across various walks of life.
“But for the national posture against homosexuality, we’d have seen there are gay people from all walks of life,” he stated. “They are in our own radio community, too.”
While acknowledging a “connection” between LGBTQ+ individuals and the fashion industry, KOD firmly argued against limiting such labels to just one sphere.
“Globally, fashion and music personalities are [constantly] out there, and they are seen more frequently,” he observed. “But I won’t agree it is the only place that has these individuals. It’s everywhere, including the church.”
Reflecting on societal perceptions from his youth, KOD recalled how effeminate males were referred to as “man-woman” rather than using terms like “gay.” He noted that such identifiers existed long before contemporary labels gained prominence.
KOD also shared a personal anecdote that highlighted evolving cultural sensitivities. “I have a good friend in the Armed Forces who is currently in Lebanon.
“One time, he sent me a message, saying, ‘Bro, I miss you.’ I was there wondering to myself, ‘How do I [appropriately] respond to this?’” he said with a chuckle, illustrating how societal interpretations of intimacy and affection have changed over time.
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