Netizens and various sectors are advocating for the freedom of expression of drag queen Pura Luka Vega, whose real name is Amadeus Fernando Pagente, after sparking controversy due to his impersonation of “Jesus Christ.”
Recently, Pagente was arrested at his residence in Sta. Cruz, Manila on October 4th by members of the Manila Police District (MPD). He is facing charges of violating Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code, as amended by Presidential Decree Nos. 960 and 969, which pertains to “moral doctrines, obscene publications and exhibitions, and indecent shows” that may “offend any race or religion,” and Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, following the viral spread of a video of his performance in July.
Ryan Thoreson, a specialist in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights program at Human Rights Watch, has called for the charges against Pagente to be dropped and for his release. Thoreson explained that this is a clear violation of an individual’s freedom of expression, as stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. He also defended Pagente’s right to have his own identity and to use art as a means of self-expression.
Pura Luka Vega’s membership in the LGBTQ+ community should not be disregarded, and it should not be a basis for his arrest and prosecution. Instead, it should be considered an integral part of his identity and a form of art to bring joy and inspiration to people.
As a society that values freedom of expression and human rights, we need to promote appreciation for diversity and respect for the rights of every individual to have their own opinions and perspectives. We should uphold the spirit of openness to different forms of art and culture without infringing on the rights of individuals to be true to themselves.
Despite the controversy surrounding him, the case of Pura Luka Vega should be viewed as an opportunity to champion the rights of every individual to be free and authentic in their way, regardless of how they choose to express their feelings and ideas. Source
