Social disapproval of lesbians is far greater even than that faced by homosexual or bisexual men

A study carried out by journalists in Cuba early this decade found that social disapproval of lesbians is far greater even than that faced by homosexual or bisexual men. Lesbians or bisexual women have greater difficulties coming out of the closet, in their families or in society, because of the traditional roles assigned to women and mothers.

Lesbians even come across incomprehension within the gay community, which is itself affected by the dominant machista culture. A man may do as he wishes with his life and his sexuality, according to many homosexual and bisexual men, but women are not accorded the same freedom.