EDITOR’S LENS: Crossdressing debate requires nuanced approach
The recent trend of crossdressing among male content creators in Ghana has sparked intense concern from the National Commission on Culture (NCC).
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Recently, an increasing number of male content creators, who wear female outfits have amassed a large following.
While some view it as a harmless form of creative expression, others see it as a direct affront to Ghanaian culture and moral values.
In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, the Deputy Executive Director of NCC, Dr Richardson Commey-Fio, expressed the Commission’s displeasure and explained that it was essential to examine the issue and consider its implications for our society.
However, content creators such as Deaconess Abokoma argue that crossdressing is simply an innovative creative outlet, meant to entertain.
They assert that their actions are misunderstood and not indicative of any hidden agenda or sexual orientation but the NCC and other cultural custodians consider crossdressing as a threat to Ghana's rich cultural heritage, disrespecting traditional values and norms. (More articles: EDITOR'S LENS: Saving creatives from the claws of drug abuse, Editor's Lens: Shine the spotlight on Choral music, EDITOR'S LENS: …Of lyrics and other elements in ‘cooking’ good music)
In the said interview, Dr Commey-Fio disclosed that the Commission currently lacked the authority to take any direct action and was waiting for the amendment of PNDC Law 238 which established the Commission to be empowered to deal directly with some of these issues.
In view of the above, Graphic Showbiz believes that NCC's inability to take direct action due to limited authority raises questions about the effectiveness of cultural governance.
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The commission's reliance on condemnation and collaboration with other bodies may not be enough to address the issue. Ultimately, the crossdressing debate requires a nuanced approach, balancing individual creativity with cultural sensitivity. This is because some may be just role-play in the bid to create content for entertainment.
We believe that it is crucial to engage in open dialogue, educating ourselves on the complexities involved. By doing so, we can work towards a solution that respects both artistic expression and Ghana's cultural values.