I think the vulnerability arises from the perceived difference as well as the stereotype of gay men being limp wristed and effeminate in the same way that lesbians are stereotyped as being butch. Wrongly I must say. Gay men are supposed to be ballet dancers or hair dressers. Not firefighters or lumberjacks. Lesbians are truckers. That's how society perceives them.

When you go through school being ostracised or bullied for being queer and when homosexuality is a crime (as it is in some countries and was only decriminalised in the UK in 1969) your defence is to keep yourself to yourself and try to avoid trouble. That can be perceived as weakness.

I can't back up the figure but I believe the accepted figure is about 10% of the population are gay/bi. That puts you in a minority outnumbered 9-1. Unfortunately the mob mentality comes to the fore as anyone who doesn't conform to the accepted norm is victimised and it doesn't matter how big and strong you are, 4 or 5 to 1 are not good odds.

I am appalled by what have read in your blog. I think it's very sad that the young lad took his own life and how callously the CO reacted. I do think that because of gay men's um.. (can't think of a way to put this diplomatically) sexual activity.. they are seen as an easy target for rape simply because they must want it. (yeah right)

I have written a couple of guys in the past and realise I have to be very cautious what I write in case I inadvertently 'out' them to either COs or other inmates who might take advantage.

Look forward to reading more of your blog.

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A closed mouth gathers no foot...