This episode contains harsh language and descriptions of physical violence.

Listener discretion is advised.

Jamaica is a small island in the Caribbean, roughly 90 miles south of Cuba,

which is known by many as a tourist destination, whether it be a stop on a cruise or the setting for

a destination vacation. Because of its picturesque beaches and vibrant culture,

it's hard not to be aware of Jamaica or its Rostafarian culture, which has, perhaps, been exaggerated

in pop culture. However, behind this veil of beautiful beaches, lively music, and delicious food

is a nation that is deeply flawed. Jamaica has been called the richest poor nation on earth,

with an economy that is defined as one of the slowest growing in the entire world,

leaving many of the nations roughly 2.8 million citizens to fend for themselves.

Additionally, Jamaica has been described as one of, if not the, most homophobic country in the world.

A designation it earned in 2006 when it was given this unfavorable title by Time magazine.

In 2012, the US State Department proclaimed that, quote,

homophobia was widespread in the country. This unfortunate fact is particularly notable when it comes

to gay men in the nation, as male homosexuality is directly outlawed under Jamaican law.

Seriously, as it stands now, simply being gay can result in gay men receiving two to 10 years in

prison, with or without hard labor. In addition to these obscene laws, there are noticeably

higher rates of violent crime perpetrated against members of Jamaica's LGBTQ community,

who, more often than not, refuse to report these incidents to police because it can only result in

more heartache or suffering for themselves. This episode directly intersects both of these

major flaws in Jamaican society. Not only the widespread poverty that afflicts many, but the violence

that goes unchecked against the LGBTQ community in general. This is the story of Dwayne Jones,

...