Given the universal nature of human sexuality and identity, a small segment of the Amish population has homosexual inclinations. But because the Amish community is very traditional and follows religious rules closely, these people hide their gay identity.
There is no room for homosexuality among the Amish. Discussing or publicly acknowledging this diversity in the community is impossible.
How Do the Amish View Homosexuality?
The Amish community views homosexuality as a sin. They firmly believe this and won’t change their minds about it.
The Amish don’t acknowledge LGBTQ+ people. They believe in strict gender roles, where everyone follows a specific path based on their gender at birth.
They forbid any kind of romantic or sexual relationship between people of the same gender.
Many Amish people have limited or no exposure to modern media like television or the Internet.
This limited exposure means they might not be familiar with terms like “gay,” “lesbian,” or “LGBT rights,” which are commonly discussed in mainstream media.
Within the Amish community, there is an unofficial “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. This means that discussions about homosexual inclinations are avoided.
In the community, people don’t talk openly about being LGBTQ+. This way, they can stay part of the community without having to deal with these issues openly.
What Happens to Gay People in Amish Communities?
LGBT Amish individuals face significant challenges, including the risk of being shunned or needing to leave the community to live authentically.
They only have two options: either choose to live their lives in secrecy or leave the community.
For those who stay, openly expressing their LGBT identity is not an option, leading to a life that may feel inauthentic or suppressed.
Amish individuals who are homosexual and married might find themselves dissatisfied or unhappy due to the conflict between their sexual orientation and their marital commitment.
Despite these feelings, they often remain faithful to their marriage, adhering to the community’s expectations and norms.
Those who leave the community do so at the cost of severing ties with their families.
In the Amish community, if someone realizes they have feelings for the same gender, or if someone uncovers their homosexual inclinations, they must publicly admit it’s wrong.
Most of the time, it’s men who make these confessions.
The Amish don’t accept gay or lesbian relationships. If you publicly acknowledge you’re gay or lesbian, your family and the whole Amish community will shun you.
You’ll have to leave behind your family and everyone you’ve known and start over in the outside world all by yourself.
Some Amish choose to stay single and not get married because they like people of the same gender.
They do that mainly to avoid conflicts with their community and stay close to family.
Support Networks for LGBT Amish
Within the ex-Amish community, there are some support networks for LGBT individuals. They provide emotional support, a sense of community, and a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and struggles.
Websites like LGBTAmish.com offer support, education, and networking opportunities for LGBT Amish and ex-Amish individuals.