Aerold John B.

Rillera

Unmasking Social Injustice

Introduction
Wearing a mask is a metaphor for the journey I’ve navigated, one that many individuals from the
LGBTQIA++ community can relate to, particularly in the context of the Philippines. Growing up as a
flamboyant, joyous, and curious child, I reveled in the innocent joys of childhood, blissfully unaware of
societal norms. It was a time when playing, questioning, and expressing oneself freely were the natural
order of things.

However, reality set in, and by the tender age of five, I confronted a question that should never burden a
child: “Are you gay?” This query, laden with prejudice and discrimination, cast a shadow over my
innocence. Fearing the consequences of embracing my true identity, I concealed it behind a mask,
responding with a hesitant “No” while carrying the weight of a silent “Yes” within me.

The harsh truth is that the Philippines, like many societies, doesn’t always extend societal justice to
LGBTQIA++ individuals. Instead, it often favors heterosexual norms, fostering an environment where
authenticity can be met with bullying, discrimination, and violence. This prevailing injustice compelled
me to adopt a mask, a façade that allowed me to blend in, to act in ways that society deemed acceptable.

Throughout my life’s chapters, I became a master of disguise, concealing my genuine self behind layers
of conformity. High school ushered in an era of smiles, but they were mere masks veiling my innermost
thoughts, vulnerabilities, and insecurities. It was a performance, a masquerade that felt necessary to win
the approval of my peers, especially those of the opposite sex.

College introduced a new mask—one adorned not with a smile but with layers of makeup and an
unwavering commitment to excel as a student nurse. My ambition was fueled by the desire to fit the
societal mold of “greatness.” I poured my energy into crafting an image I believed the world would
readily accept. It was a transformation, shaped by a sense of purpose.

Social justice is a cornerstone of nursing because nurses have responsibilities for providing equal
and fair care for people from all background. Social justice as nursing imperative is clearly
recognised by some professional nursing organisations, but not so by others. Being someone who
has experienced social injustice myself means that I should be the one to alleviate the injustices
in our community. Growing up I still remember people saying “Bakla ka mamamatay ka sa aids”
they induce fear to young children hoping that they will change after hearing those words, but
those words won’t change us, they will change how we look on ourselves, they will have an
impact on gay kids growing up, they will always have that constant fear of having AIDS/HIV
misconceptions, and people of the lower socioeconomic class doesn’t have access to quality
education to battle the misconceptions about it. People will fear gay men of having the virus,
they will label them as an outcast. I want to act as a beacon of hope for my fellow gay men, I
want them to feel that they are still normal, they need to be treated without discrimination,
without fear because they didn’t want that virus in the first place, they were just normal people
who contact the virus in the first place.

1. Equity and Fairness: Social justice entails the fair and just distribution of
resources, opportunities, and privileges within society. It emphasizes equal access to benefits and
opportunities regardless of one’s background, identity, or circumstances. In my story, the masks
I wore to conform to societal norms represent the inequality and discrimination faced by the
LGBTQIA++ community in the Philippines. By shedding these masks, I am advocating for
equity and fairness, challenging the unequal treatment that individuals like me often endure.
2. Inclusivity and Diversity: Social justice recognizes and values the diversity of
individuals and communities. It promotes an inclusive society where differences in race, gender,
sexual orientation, and other characteristics are celebrated rather than stigmatized. My journey
of self-discovery and authenticity reflects the importance of inclusivity and diversity. By
embracing our true self and advocating for LGBTQIA++ rights, I am contributing to a more
inclusive society in the Philippines, where diverse identities are respected and honored.
3. Advocacy and Activism: Social justice involves taking action to address
systemic issues and promote positive change. It encourages individuals to advocate for the rights
of marginalized groups, challenge oppressive systems, and work towards creating a more just
society. My decision to become a voice for change in healthcare exemplifies the attribute of
advocacy and activism. By raising awareness about healthcare disparities faced by marginalized
communities, I am actively working towards a more equitable healthcare system in the
Philippines, aligning with the principles of social justice.

Today, I stand before you unmasked, having shed the disguises that once defined me. These
masks, products of different life stages, all stemmed from a shared need for acceptance and
belonging. However, I’ve come to realize that true authenticity is rooted in embracing
vulnerability and challenging societal norms. My journey has brought me to a profound
appreciation of the concept of social justice in healthcare. No longer do I wish to hide behind
masks or conform to expectations that don’t align with my values. Instead, I find purpose in
speaking candidly about the healthcare system’s inequities and disparities. Social justice in
health is more than a buzzword; it’s a calling, a mission to address the structural and systemic
issues perpetuating inequality in healthcare access and outcomes. It’s a commitment to
advocating for marginalized communities and striving for an inclusive, equitable future.
No more pretenses, no more hiding. I am here to be a voice for change, to bridge the gaps in our
healthcare system, and to collaborate with others who share this vision. Social justice in health is
not just a goal; it’s an ongoing journey we must undertake collectively, unmasked and unafraid.
References:

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