Gay Peru

Culture

By Ricardo Segreda

As throughout most of Latin America, notions of gender have been experiencing significant upheaval over the years. For example, despite traditional machista notions that men are defined as being providers and physically strong, and women as obedient mothers and wives, over the last thirty years, women who can afford it are now routinely obtaining education and pursuing careers. Similarly, despite traditional homophobia, homosexuality was officially decriminalized in 1999, and in the years since gay businesses along with a gay subculture in Lima, Arequipa, and other cities with both a large population and a notable urban culture. 

However, while urban culture might be moderately gay-tolerant, it is still not gay-friendly and many men and women lead closeted, double lives.  Within certain areas, such as theatre or the arts, it is easier to be "out" than in business or politics.  Many gays and lesbians chose not to come out to their families. Still, the anonymity of the Internet has facilitated the promotion of a gay culture, and visitors can check out websites such as www.gayperu.com for where they can safely find gay bars, clubs, hotels, and restaurants.