in: http://www.gaystarnews.com/
Illogical 14-year ban on lesbians donating blood has been lifted by China’s ministry of health, sexually active gay men are still barred
China has lifted a 14-year illogical ban on lesbians giving blood, the ministry of health announced on Sunday (1 July).
Xian, the director of Beijng-based lesbian organization Tong Yu (Common Language) told Global Times that she welcomed the move and a group of Tong Yu members were planning to give blood soon. She tried to give blood after the 2008 Sichuan earthquake in China but was she could not because she is a homosexual.
‘It’s scientific that the policy doesn't mention homosexual identity but only fences off some who have certain sex behaviors,' Xian said. 'Because AIDS is not caused by one's homosexual identity but improper sexual behaviour.’
The new policy that states only sexually active men who have sex with men are barred from giving blood.
‘It is about our dignity and the elimination of blood donation discrimination,’ Xian added.
Sexologist and sexualities rights campaigner Li Yinhe said that because China learnt about AIDs and homosexuality at the same time, ‘the nation easily believed that being a homosexual equates to AIDS’.
‘Inadequate understanding of the two things is the main reason why "homosexuals" was listed as a group not allowed to donate blood, as a way to prevent the spread of AIDS,’ Li said.
‘Judging from the amendment, the country's views on homosexuals and AIDS has progressed.’
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