But a look in own histories shows that in all cultures and countries lesbians 'popped up' every now and then. Today lesbian groups are active in all continents and in most countries in the world. It is not Europe or the US - but South Africa which has the most progressive legislation. With laws against discrimination - and making it possible for lesbians and gays to adopt children. Nelson Mandela, the ANC and the Lesbian and Gay coalition worked together and understood that democracy also means fighting gender-apartheid and homophobia.
Many lesbians reject their own feelings at first.
In cultures where women suffer cliterectomy, incest, or arranged marriage women have little or no control over their own lives or bodies. But still, we know, women love women everywhere - any social, economic or political condition. And now we are speaking out internationally about our lesbian lives, our lesbian love. We are learning to be proud, not ashamed. We are learning to be visible and loud, not secret.