If you can’t speak about childhood without sexual distortion, you need help

Ghanaian filmmaker and actress Leila Djansi is confronting social media users over the sexualization of childhood memories. The controversy followed her posting of a photo depicting a traditional Christmas hut built on a beach.

“Last night, I posted this photo of a Christmas hut,” Djansi explained.

“For anyone who grew up in Ghana in the 80s and 90s, this image needs no explanation. Children built these huts themselves, sometimes with the help of parents, and they represented creativity, unity, and the magic of the season.”

What began as a celebration of Ghanaian childhood ingenuity quickly took a troubling turn. Some men in the comments began sharing sexualized memories allegedly experienced in these huts.

Djansi condemned this behavior in no uncertain terms: “Children cannot consent to sex.

Recounting sexual activity from childhood as humor or achievement is not nostalgia. It is testament to a broken childhood.”

She highlighted the gendered dimension of such memories: “Not a single woman in the comments sexualized the hut. Girls were the victims.

Women internalize shame. We recognize sexual violence early. We do not gleefully sexualize childhood experiences.”

Djansi directed a strong message to those who attempt to glorify sexual acts from youth: “If you can’t speak about your childhood without sexual distortion, then you have some serious growing up to do. You need professional help.”