Belgian trans man helped to die after failed gender reassignment operations

in:  http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/10/03/belgian-trans-man-helped-to-die-after-failed-gender-reassignment-operations/

 

Mr Verhelst underwent hormone replacement therapy in 2009 (Photo: Facebook)

A transgender man has been helped to die by doctors in Belgium after a series of failed gender reassignment operations.
Nathan Verhelst died in Brussels on Monday after being allowed to have his life ended on the grounds of “unbearable psychological suffering”.
The 44-year-old asked to die after undergoing a series of failed gender reassignment surgeries to transition from female to male. He had undergone hormone replacement therapy in 2009, and underwent the surgeries last year.
Prior to his death, Mr Verhelst had told Belgian newspaper Het Laatse Nieuws: “I was ready to celebrate my new birth. But when I looked in the mirror, I was disgusted with myself.
“My new breasts did not match my expectations and my new penis had symptoms of rejection. I do not want to be… a monster.”
Two doctors concluded that the 44-year-old did not simply have temporary depression, and his request to be helped to die via medical euthanasia was granted.
Dr Distelmans, the doctor who administered Mr Verhelst’s lethal injection, told The Telegraph: “The choice of Nathan Verhelst has nothing to do with fatigue of life. There are other factors that meant he was in a situation with incurable, unbearable suffering. Unbearable suffering for euthanasia can be both physical and psychological. This was a case that clearly met the conditions demanded by the law. Nathan underwent counseling for six months.”
Dr Jean-Michel Thomas added: “When we have a case which is… complicated, we ask ourselves more questions in order to be certain about the diagnosis.”
In 2002, Belgium became only the second country after The Netherlands to legalise medical euthanasia, which has since been legalised in Luxembourg also.
Euthanasia carried out by doctors differs from assisted suicide, whereby the patient is helped to take their own life.
Guidelines set out by the country’s parliament specify that patients wishing to end their own lives must be conscious when they ask to die. They must also be under a “constant and unbearable physical or psychological pain” resulting from an “accident or incurable illness”.
Patients must also give a “voluntary, considered and repeated” request to die.
There were 1,432 recorded cases of euthanasia in Belgium in 2012; a 25% increase on the previous year’s figure. They made up 2% of all deaths, the AFP news agency reports.



 http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/10/03/belgian-trans-man-helped-to-die-after-failed-gender-reassignment-operations/

Mississippi town sued after refusing to license gay bar

 http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/World/2013/10/01/21164326.html

Pat "P.J." Newton stands in front of the building she is leasing in Shannon, Mississippi September 30, 2012. REUTERS/Lauren Wood

TUPELO, Miss. - A rural northeast Mississippi community discriminated against a lesbian woman by denying her a license to reopen a bar catering to gays and lesbians, a federal lawsuit filed on Tuesday claims.
The lawsuit was filed by the Alabama-based Southern Poverty Law Center and said the town of Shannon discriminated against Pat “PJ” Newton and violated her civil rights to free speech and equal protection.
It accused the town, the mayor and the aldermen of denying the license because Newton’s bar would cater to gays and lesbians, and not because she failed to meet any criteria for opening and operating a business in Shannon.
During the town meeting in June when Shannon aldermen denied the license request, about 40 residents attended to oppose the bar, and delivered a petition with more than 100 signatures from people who objected.
Shannon attorney Gary Carnathan said he had not yet seen the lawsuit and could not comment. However, he said there was no mention of sexual orientation at the June meeting.
“There wasn’t ever any mention about gay or straight or anything when it was brought up,” Carnathan said. “It was only brought up after it was initially declined.”
Town officials say they voted against having any other bar in the community of about 1,700 residents. The town has a liquor store and two existing bars.
Newton, 55, operated the bar, called O’Haras, in the community from 1994 to 1998. Now living in Memphis, Newton said she decided to reopen it after numerous gays and lesbians in northeast Mississippi said they wanted a place where they could feel comfortable and unwind without feeling threatened.
Shannon is about 11 miles from Tupelo, home of the conservative American Family Association.
Tension felt by gays in the region was highlighted in the 2006 documentary, “Small Town Gay Bar,” which featured the Shannon bar. It later operated under a different name after Newton sold it, and it closed a few years ago.
Newton said she didn’t know there was any opposition until she appeared at the town meeting to ask for the license.
“If I’d been a straight redneck from Shannon, nobody would have cared,” Newton said recently.
She said she had already signed a lease on the property and had begun making improvements, and pays rent and utility bills even though she is unable to open.
The lawsuit asks the court to award damages for lost revenue and expenses, issue an injunction allowing the bar to open and award legal fees.
David Dinielli, the Southern Poverty Law Center’s deputy legal director, said Newton met all requirements to open the business.
“The facts and circumstances make it clear that something else was at play here,” he said.
The California law firm Hogan Lovells is also working on the case, which is: Pat “PJ” Newton and O’Hara’s v. Town of Shannon, Mississippi, et al, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi, 1:13-cv-00187-JMV


 http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/World/2013/10/01/21164326.html

Barilla would never use a gay family in ads: Pasta boss

in: http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/World/2013/09/26/21153561.html

Guido Barilla, chairman of the world's leading pasta manufacturer, prompted calls for a consumer boycott on Thursday after telling Italian radio his company would never use a gay family in its advertising.

"I would never do (a commercial) with a homosexual family, not for lack of respect but because we don't agree with them. Ours is a classic family where the woman plays a fundamental role," Barilla, 55, said in an interview with Radio 24 on Wednesday.

Barilla - one of the best known pasta brands around the world - is one of Italy's biggest advertisers, and for many years has used the image of a happy family living in an idealized version of the Italian countryside, with the slogan: "Where there's Barilla, there's home".

In the interview, Barilla said he opposed adoption by gay parents, but was in favour of allowing gay marriage, which is not legal in Italy. His comment about advertising was in response to a direct question about whether he would ever feature a gay family in his company's commercials.

If gays "like our pasta and our advertising, they'll eat our pasta, if they don't like it then they will not eat it and they will eat another brand," he said.

Aurelio Mancuso, head of gay rights group Equality Italia, said Barilla's comments were an "offensive provocation" and called for a boycott of the company's pasta, sauces and snacks.

"We accept the invitation from the Barilla owner to not eat his pasta," Mancuso said. Many Italians used social media to voice support for a boycott.

Alessandro Zan, a gay member of parliament, said on Twitter: "You can't mess around with consumers, including gay ones."

Barilla issued a statement on Thursday apologising, explaining that he was trying to say "simply that the woman plays a central role in a family."

"Barilla features families in its commercials because it embraces anyone, and they have always been identified with our brand," he said.

Spanish film star Antonio Banderas features in the latest publicity campaign for Barilla's Mulino Bianco cookies and breakfast cakes. They feature him baking biscuits with children and talking to a chicken called Rosita.

http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/World/2013/09/26/21153561.html

23 September - “Celebrate Bisexuality Day”

http://ilga-europe.org/home/news/for_media/media_releases/23_september_celebrate_bisexuality_day2


ILGA-Europe statement on the occassion of the “Celebrate Bisexuality Day”. 

Since 1999, 23 September is a “Celebrate Bisexuality Day”. This occasion is an opportunity to address the particular issues bisexual people face and also to raise the awareness about bisexuality and to celebrate the diversity of and differences within the LGBTI communities. 

 

Prejudice, discrimination and violence against bisexual people continues to be a significant concerns. In May 2013, the European Union’s Agency for Fundamental Rights revealed the finding of the largest ever Survey of experiences by lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people, which provided an insight to bisexual people’s experiences and shows that bisexual people experience significant degree of prejudice, discrimination and violence due to their sexual orientation.

The results make it clear that more specific and targeted legal, policy and social changes need to be initiated by European and national decision makers to protect people from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. 

In addition to discrimination and violence, the bisexual community often experiences lack of understanding and acceptance by society in general and also lesbian and gay communities. 

ILGA-Europe reiterates its full commitment to full equality and respect of the human rights of bisexual people. Bisexual people are entitled to the same dignity and deserve the same opportunity to live their lives without prejudice and discrimination, develop and fully enjoy their identities and form relationships. 

On this occasion, ILGA-Europe calls on the LGBTI communities to take a leading role in tackling prejudice against bisexual people and challenge normative approach to identity and sexuality.

ILGA-Europe
Brussels, 20 September 2013

 http://ilga-europe.org/home/news/for_media/media_releases/23_september_celebrate_bisexuality_day2

Church sign goes viral: ‘Jesus had two dads and he turned out just fine’

 in: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/30/church-sign-goes-viral-jesus-had-two-dads-and-he-turned-out-just-fine/

An inclusive church in Canada has joined others using its sign to advertise a message of inclusion, and has found viral internet fame as a result.

The St John’s Anglican Church, erected the sign saying: “Jesus had two dads, and he turned out just fine!”.
Since a photograph of the sign was posted by a Reddit user, the image has been viewed over a million times.
Reports suggest the church is in Niagara Falls, Ontario, and a member of the St John’s clergy confirmed to the Independent that the message had been put up in front of the church.

This is not the first time in recent months that church signs have been used to carry positive messages of inclusion for the LGBT commmunity.

Earlier in August, in a similar fashion, Australia’s Gosford Anglican Church posted similar messages, critical of those opposed to LGBT rights, and carrying messages of support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.

Church leader Rod Bower, a long time supporter of equal marriage, said: ”This has gone international now — there are people liking it all over the world and it is just a little sign in Gosford,

“The conservative view is not the only view. … Marriage equality is a hot issue at the moment and it seems the church is struggling to get over this issue. I am reflecting on what the spirit of God might be saying in a modern world.”

http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/30/church-sign-goes-viral-jesus-had-two-dads-and-he-turned-out-just-fine/

Activists paint rainbow crosswalk at Russian embassy in Sweden

in: http://www.cbc.ca/newsblogs/yourcommunity/2013/08/activists-paint-rainbow-crosswalk-at-russian-embassy-in-sweden.html

Övergångsstället vid ryska ambassaden är nymålat. #gilla

LGBT activists in Sweden are letting the Russian government know exactly how they feel about Vladmir Putin's controversial new anti "gay propaganda" legislation in a way that is simple and peaceful but vibrantly proud.

Swedish newspaper The Local reports that protesters gathered outside of the Russian embassy in Stockholm this weekend to paint over a traditional black and white "zebra" crosswalk with a rainbow of colours.

Utanför ryska ambassaden.
 pic.twitter.com/x3PmchzywX

On Saturday, a group of naked men are reported to have marched back and forth across the rainbow crossing outside the embassy while supporters called on others to boycott the World Athletics Championships which began this weekend in Moscow.

 

“We have no case file on it but it will probably be classified as vandalism or a violation of traffic regulations,” said Ulf Lindgren of the Stockholm Police to Swedish language paper Dagens Nyheter.

 "There's a risk it can create danger for those using the crossing as they should look a certain way. It's confusing if they are different," added Lundgren.

He noted that it is not the police department's responsibility to restore the sidewalk to its regular pattern, but as of Tuesday morning it appears as though someone had arranged for this to be done.

  

Nu tvättas regnbågen bort från övergångsstället vid ryska ambassaden. pic.twitter.com/IN5CH85s3Y

 Nu tvättar de bort regnbågsövergångsstället utanför ryska ambassaden :( foto @UlrikaBy instagram.com/p/c8seB2mjtb/



The colourful crosswalk may have been short lived, but it served as a powerful symbol for Stockholm's LGBT community, which celebrated its annual Pride festival earlier this month.

 Spreading some #gay propaganda outside of the #Russian embassy in Stockholm. http://pic.twitter.com/lQPbv0f4WL



Russia's announcement of a new law cracking down on gay rights activism during the 2014 Olympics in Sochi has sparked international debate over participation in the forthcoming games.

In the wake of this intended crackdown, the Russian embassy in Stockholm has been the target of a series of pro-LGBT rights demonstrations.




Outside Russian embassy, #stockholm demonstration in support of #LGBT rights #sthlmpride2013 #russia http://pic.twitter.com/umkMArWFlO

Standing up against the Putins so called morals. Outside the russian Embassy in Stockholm! #russia #gay #LGBT http://pic.twitter.com/QsyeHVgS1G

Gay pride rally outside of Russian Embassy in Stockholm this morning http://pic.twitter.com/wELTFzCUaV via @claesnyberg #sthlmpride

Before it could be washed away, passersby took photos of the rainbow crosswalk to voice their support on Instagram and Twitter.

Rainbow crosswalk outside the #Russian Embassy in #Stockholm. #Equalrights for all

Snyggt övergångställe utanför #Ryska #Ambassaden

 "Neat crosswalk outside the Russian Embassy," reads the caption above, and below "Hey Russian Ambassador, what has anybody done to you?"




Hej ryska ambassaden vad fint någon gjort hos er ❤️




Civil olydnad får tumme upp. Övergångsstället utanför ryska ambassaden.

 "Thumbs up for Civil disobedience. Crosswalk outside Russian Embassy." reads the caption above. Below, "Outside the Russian embassy right now. Apparently they made this last night."


 
Utanför ryska ambassaden just nu. Applåderar de som gjorde detta inatt #hbtq #lgbt #pride #antigayolympics



 And while the rainbow crosswalk in Stockholm wasn't the first of its kind, it won't be the last either.

Australian LGBT protesters also took to sidewalks outside of the Russian embassy in Sydney this weekend with colourful chalk in a similar fashion.


A beautiful day for chalking! The @DIYrainbows crew outside the Russian Embassy in Woollahra today: http://pic.twitter.com/7Y9M3xh5cc


The #DIYRainbow movement spread beyond Sydney through much of Australia.


And a similar work was spotted in Utrecht, Holland, where this photo was taken, and later posted in response to a photo of the Swedish crosswalk on Street Art Utopia's Facebook page.
 
Cobuz Okhuijsen's Photos | Facebook



 Others are protesting Russia's law in more traditional ways at embassies in Chile...
 
Chile: Volunteers from LGBT-rights org. @IgualesChile decry Russian homophobia outside Russian embassy http://pic.twitter.com/1q7HZtn3Nj via @ahsoffia


Turkey...


Pride march attacked in Russia, sign in Istanbul at the Russian embassy: "Don't worry, homophobia can be cured." http://pic.twitter.com/EPu5u0eLqn



 Scotland...
 
Wee @LGBTScotland afternoon protest for LGBT equality at the Russian Embassy @alchemister @FireCrow69 http://pic.twitter.com/VM2F2Tmi7i

Israel...

"Berlin36 Moscow13" #TelAviv activists protest homophobia in front of Embassy of #Russia #LGBT 972mag.com/tel-aviv-activ… http://pic.twitter.com/QDUCm8OvaJ

And of course, in Canada, where permanent rainbow-coloured crosswalks were installed in downtown Vancouver's west end during the city's Pride Week celebrations earlier this summer.

Rainbow crosswalks show off Vancouver's pride

http://www.cbc.ca/newsblogs/yourcommunity/2013/08/activists-paint-rainbow-crosswalk-at-russian-embassy-in-sweden.html

The Queen: Monarch of 12 countries where being gay can land you in prison

in: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/16/the-queen-monarch-of-12-countries-where-being-gay-can-land-you-in-prison/


While the anti-gay laws in Russia have garnered a lot of International attention in recent weeks, it is still legal to be gay in the country. However, in other parts of the world, where The Queen is Head of State, gay people can be jailed for same-sex activity.

Queen Elizabeth II is Queen of three nation states where same-sex marriage is legal, England and Wales, Canada and New Zealand. However in the majority of the countries where The Queen is the constitutional Monarch, there are no legal protections in place to protect LGBT people at all.

Although The Queen has no role in the development of laws, the Commonwealth Realms are the closet power relationships that she has in the world.

These 12 countries are listed below:-


Antigua and Barbuda

In Antigua and Barbuda same sex activity is illegal for both gay men and lesbian women. Two consenting adults found guilty of the offence can face up to 15 years in prison and no legal protections exist to protect those who are LGBT.


Barbados

Although the law is rarely enforced, people in Barbados found guilty of same-sex activity can face up to life imprisonment. Homophobia is rife in the country and in recent days a newspaper columnist from the country claimed that “AIDS a punishment” for those that are homosexual. 


Belize

Same-sex activity has been illegal in Belize since 2003 and those found guilty can face up to 10 years in prison. Despite the fact Belize has faced pressure from the United States to change the law the Prime Minister has remained adamant that gay sex should remain a criminal offence. Earlier this year a case that was brought in 2010 made it to the Supreme Court with British former attorney general, Lord Goldsmith among a team who argued for an overturn of the law.


Grenada

In Grenada male homosexuality is a crime and those found guilty can face up to 10 years in prison. While female homosexuality isn’t illegal in the country, no legal rights exist for lesbians.


Jamaica

Same sex activity is illegal in Jamaica for both men and women and those found guilty can face up to 10 years in prison. Jamaica has been described as one of the most homophobic places on earth. PinkNews.co.uk has reported numerous stories out of Jamaica that show endemic homophobia in all areas of society. Recently, a transgender teenager was murdered and it was later revealed the victim suffered abuse at school and from their parents.


Papua New Guinea

Male homosexuality is illegal in Papua New Guinea with those found guilty of partaking in sodomy facing up to 14 years in prison. Although the law is rarely enforced, LGBT people face widespread social stigma and isolation from the rest of society. The AIDS epidemic which has exploded in Papua New Guinea in the past few years has been in part blamed on the homophobic laws and the homophobia in society.


Saint Kitts and Nevis

It is illegal for gay men to have sex in Saint Kitts and Nevis where those found guilty can face up 10 years in prison. No one has ever been jailed under the law but there are no plans for the law to be overturned. A gay cruise ship was banned from docking on the islands in 2005.


Saint Lucia

Males homosexuality is illegal on the island of Saint Lucia with those founds guilty facing up to 10 years in prison. It was the only country in the Americas to formally oppose the United Nations declaration on sexual orientation and gender identity.


Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Same-sex activity in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is illegal with those found guilty facing up to 5 years in prison. Those found guilty of anal sex can face up to 10 years in prison. The law is said to be rarely enforced the country.


The Solomon Islands

Those found guilty of partaking in same-sex activity on The Solomon Islands can face up to 14 years in prison. People who attempt to engage in anal sex can face up to 7 years in prison. Attempts to reform the law were made in 2008 but the plans were met with strong opposition and in 2011 the country informed the United Nations that they would not seek to decriminalise same-sex behaviour.


Tuvalu

Male homosexuality is illegal in Tuvalu with those found guilty facing up to 14 years in prison. Female homosexuality is legal but no legal protections or recognition exist for lesbians in the country. The law states that no person shall “commit buggery with another person or with an animal.” The country also makes it illegal for a man to have sexual intercourse with a “female idiot or imbecile woman”.


http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/16/the-queen-monarch-of-12-countries-where-being-gay-can-land-you-in-prison/

Em nota, Embaixada da Rússia no Brasil nega homofobia do país

in: http://revistaladoa.com.br/2013/08/noticias/em-nota-embaixada-russia-no-brasil-nega-homofobia-pais

Em nota dirigida à militância gay brasileira, a Embaixada da Rússia no Brasil negou que o país promova a homofobia em suas leis ou atuação oficial. A comunicação foi resposta a uma pedido de explicações encaminhado no mês passado pela ABGLT – Associação Brasileira de Gays, Lésbicas e Transgêneros, sobre as recentes denúncias de violação de direitos humanos no país.

“Ultimamente a Embaixada, bem como as outras representações da Rússia no Brasil, têm recebido várias mensagens com a preocupação sobre a situação com a comunidade LGBT na Rússia depois a adoção da lei sobre a propaganda das relações sexuais não-tradicionais. Neste contexto queriamos comunicar o seguinte. Discriminação de qualquer gênero é proibida na Rússia a nível constitucional de acordo com os compromissos assumidos no âmbito da ONU e disposições correspondentes da Convenção Europeia dos Direitos Humanos”, diz o comunicado que ainda alega que os vídeos violentos enviados no pedido se referem a atos contra a pedofilia e não oficiais do governo russo, que não apoiam "estes radicais".

O texto ainda aponta que a legislação protege a liberdade de expressão dos LGBTs russos e demais cidadãos, cita entidades de direitos humanos do país e que a nova lei não criou uma onda de violência contra gays no país como alegado pela entidade. “As informações sobre uma “campanha da violência de grande escala” em relação às pessoas da orientação sexual não-tradicional que seguiu a adoção da lei acima mencionada não correspondem à realidade”.

Confira a nota encaminhada ao secretario da ABGLT, Toni Reis:


Ultimante a Embaixada, bem como as outras representações da Rússia no Brasil, têm recebido várias mensagens com a preocupação sobre a situação com a comunidade LGBT na Rússia depois a adoção da lei sobre a propaganda das relações sexuais não-tradicionais. Neste contexto queriamos comunicar o seguinte.
Discriminação de qualquer gênero é proibida na Rússia a nível constitucional de acordo com os compromissos assumidos no âmbito da ONU e disposições correspondentes da Convenção Europeia dos Direitos Humanos.

Parte 2 do Artigo 19 da Constituição da Federação da Rússia garante a igualdade de direitos e liberdades das pessoas e dos cidadãos, independentemente do sexo, raça, nacionalidade, língua, origem, status de propriedades e emprego, lugar de residência, relação com a religião, convicções, perecimento a associações públicas, bem como outros fatores, inclusive a orientação sexual.

A lei referida proibe somente impor atitudes sexuais não-tradicionais aos menores de idade. Isso não contradiz à Constituição russa, o que foi confirmado pelo Tribunal Constitucional da Federação da Rússia que decretou em 2010 que a família, maternidade e infância no sentido tradicional são os valores que determinam a preservação e desenvolvimento do povo multinacional da Rússia. Ademais, o nosso país, sendo o signatário da Convenção sobre os Direitos da Criança, sempre procede do princípio da melhor defesa dos interesses dos menores de idade, e a legislação russa obriga os órgãos públicos proteger crianças de informação que possa prejudicar a saúde delas, bem como desenvolvimento espiritual.

Podemos constatar que os interesses da comunidade LGBT dos cidadãos russos e dos estrangeiros são protegidos pela Constituição e leis russos. Atuam na Rússia várias organizações públicas a representarem os interesses da LGBT, inclusive a Federação do Esporte LGBT que une mais de 30 clubes esportivos. Os esportistas russos da orientação não-tradicional ganharam o 2º lugar em termos da quantidade de participantes e medalhas nos jogos europeus em Budapeste em 2012.

No que se refere à lei sobre a propaganda das relações sexuais não-tradicionais, a aplicação dela é controlada pelas cortes russas, levando em consideração o princípio constitucional de não-discriminação. A lei prevê a responsabilidade administrativa, e não penal, imposta em ordem judicial e causada somente pela violação intencional da proibição referida, sendo que a legislação russa não impede os representantes da LGBT de defender os seus direitos por meios legítimos. As informações sobre uma “campanha da violência de grande escala” em relação às pessoas da orientação sexual não-tradicional que seguiu a adoção da lei acima mencionada não correspondem à realidade.

Quanto aos links que mandou, trata-se de um grupo neonazista lutando contra pedofilia com seus próprios meios e não tem a ver com a posição oficial do governo russo, que obviamente não apoia essas medidas radicais.

Atenciosamente,
Embaixada da Rússia no Brasil

http://revistaladoa.com.br/2013/08/noticias/em-nota-embaixada-russia-no-brasil-nega-homofobia-pais

Puerto Rican gay boxer Orlando Cruz to marry boyfriend

in: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/15/puerto-rican-gay-boxer-orlando-cruz-to-marry-boyfriend/





Puerto Rican professional boxer Orlando Cruz is to marry his long term boyfriend José Manuel after proposing on Facebook.

In a video message posted to the social networking site, Cruz said (via translation) “I wanted to tell you how much I need you and how much I miss you”.

Mentioning his upcoming WBO Featherweight Title fight against Mexico’s Orlando Solido, he said to Manuel: “Now, more than ever that I have an important fight coming up for the world championship, I want to tell you that you are a very special person in my life. I am a little nervous, but I want to tell you and share with your friends and my friends if you want to marry me. I want you to be part of my life and me be part of yours.”

In a similar video reply, Manuel accepted his boxing boyfriend’s proposal.

Cruz went public about his sexuality in October 2012 and became boxing’s first openly gay professional fighter in the process.

He released a statement to the world saying: “I’ve been fighting for more than 24 years and as I continue my ascendant career, I want to be true to myself.

“I want to try to be the best role model I can be for kids who might look into boxing as a sport and a professional career.

“I have and will always be a proud Puerto Rican. I have always been and always will be a proud gay man.”

Equal marriage is not currently recognised in Puerto Rico.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/15/puerto-rican-gay-boxer-orlando-cruz-to-marry-boyfriend/

WWE wrestler Darren Young comes out as gay: ‘I’m comfortable with myself, and I’m happy’

in: http://sports.nationalpost.com/2013/08/15/wwe-wrestler-darren-young-comes-out-as-gay-im-comfortable-with-myself-and-im-happy/





WWE wrestler Darren Young has come out as gay in an interview with TMZ.

The 29-year-old American was asked in the interview, posted Thursday morning, whether he believes a gay wrestler can be successful in the WWE.

“Absolutely,” Young responded. “Look at me. I’m a WWE superstar and to be honest with you, I’ll tell you right now, I’m gay. And I’m happy. I’m very happy.

“I’m just letting you know that I’m happy who I am, I’m comfortable with myself, and I’m happy to be living a dream.”

Young said his sexual orientation does not matter to his profession.

“Some people might not like it. Some people will like it. But I’m here to please myself. I’m here to be happy.”

He added that he was “hoping to be able to make a difference” with his revelation.

“It’s very important to me that people understand that someone’s sexual preference shouldn’t really matter. It should be about the person.”

WWE released a statement in support of Darren Young later on Thursday.

“WWE is proud of Darren Young for being open about his sexuality, and we will continue to support him as a WWE Superstar. Today, in fact, Darren will be participating in one of our Be A STAR anti-bullying rallies in Los Angeles to teach children how to create positive environments for everyone regardless of age, race, religion or sexual orientation.”

In another interview with TMZ, fellow wrestler John Cena said it was “wonderful” that Young came out.

“It doesn’t affect his work. He’s a wonderful worker in the ring,” Cena told TMZ. “Darren Young is a consummate professional. I’m actually very proud of him for doing that.”

WWE wrestler and executive Triple H voiced his support via Twitter.

In April, Jason Collins became the first gay athlete in one of the four major men’s professional sports in North America to come out during his career. Liz Carmouche and Jessica Andrade faced off in the first UFC fight featuring two out lesbians at the end of July. 

 

Also this year Robbie Rogers, who revealed he was gay upon his retirement over the winter, made his return to Major League Soccer, joining the Los Angeles Galaxy. American soccer player Megan Rapinoe came out before the London Olympics and first overall pick Brittney Griner is among the WNBA’s openly gay players.

http://sports.nationalpost.com/2013/08/15/wwe-wrestler-darren-young-comes-out-as-gay-im-comfortable-with-myself-and-im-happy/

Turquia pode ser 2º país de maioria muçulmana a proteger LGBT

in: http://paroutudo.com/2013/08/15/turquia-pode-ser-2%C2%BA-pais-de-maioria-muculmana-a-proteger-lgbt/


A Turquia pode se juntar à Albânia e se tornar o segundo país de maioria muçulmana a ter uma legislação que protege cidadãos LGBT.

O Comitê de Consenso Constitucional do país, concordou, na segunda-feira, 13, em adicionar na seção de “justificativas” do projeto da nova constituição turca a discriminação por orientação sexual. Essa área da Constituição serve como um guia para juízes e procuradores.

Ativistas arco-íris, no entanto, não se entusiasmaram muito. O grupo LGBT Kaos GL teme que a cláusula não entre na versão final da Constituição do país e mesmo que entre não faça diferença no dia-a-dia dos homossexuais.

“Como temos tantos juízes homofóbicos e transfóbicas na Turquia, é difícil esperar que a sua interpretação de crimes de ódio vai mudar de repente por este acréscimo”, disse um porta-voz da entidade ao site “Gay Star News”.


http://paroutudo.com/2013/08/15/turquia-pode-ser-2%C2%BA-pais-de-maioria-muculmana-a-proteger-lgbt/

Crohn's helps transgender pot producer avoid jail

in: http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Crime/2013/08/14/21045621.html



A transgender Nova Scotia man with Crohn's disease avoided the usual jail sentence that comes with producing marijuana because of his "unique personal circumstances."

Jesiah Dean MacDonald pleaded guilty to producing marijuana after cops found 46 pot plants in an apartment.

The Crown sought a 30-day jail sentence, which is standard even for a first-time offence.

Instead, the judge fined MacDonald $1,000 and sentenced him to one year's probation.

MacDonald said he was being paid to look after the plants and the apartment, neither of which he owned. He gave cops the name of the owner, who was later charged.

He said he planned to use the money to fund female-to-male gender reassignment surgery.

He also suffers from Crohn's disease, an often painful bowel disease, and said he relies on marijuana to ease the pain.

"The difficulty in the present case is balancing the need for a strong statement of denunciation and general deterrence and addressing the offender's unique personal circumstances as well as the circumstances of this case," Judge N. M. Scaravelli wrote in his decision.

"I do not doubt that changing one gender's identity is a life-altering and difficult process.

"The offender's motive for committing the offence directly relates to the process of changing gender. The offender made a poor choice in attempting to achieve that goal."

Scaravelli also said MacDonald seems unlikely to lead a criminal lifestyle.

"I am also cognizant of the possibility that the offender's transgender identity could result in personal difficulties if placed in a correctional facility," the judge wrote.
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Crime/2013/08/14/21045621.html

Políticos alemães defendem asilo para gays russos no país

in: http://paroutudo.com/2013/08/12/politicos-alemaes-defendem-asilo-para-gays-russos-no-pais/

A situação está tão perigosa para os LGBT da Rússia que políticos alemães importantes defendem que o país facilite o asilo para cidadãos arco-íris russos.

Markus Löning, encarregado de direitos humanos do Partido Liberal Democrático (FDP) da Alemanha, pediu, em entrevista ao jornal “Welt am Sonntag”, no domingo, 11, que os Estados alemães atendam “de forma descomplicada aos homossexuais da Rússia que procurem asilo em nosso país”.

A mesma opinião é compartilhada pelo chefe da bancada parlamentar do partido A Esquerda, Gregor Gysi, a deputada verde Marieluise Beck e a ministra da Justiça, Sabine Leutheusser-Schnarrenberger.

Segundo o site do canal “Deutsche Welle”, a ministra liberal-democrata disse que, com a “exclusão dos homossexuais”, a Rússia “está dando mais um grande passo na direção de uma perfeita ditadura”, enquanto Beck informou sobre as possibilidades legais de um asilo para homossexuais.

“Já existem hoje, na lei alemã, os critérios de perseguição por questões de gênero e não estatal”, explicou a deputada. Portanto “há uma base legal para conceder proteção na Alemanha aos homossexuais perseguidos na Rússia, após o exame individual do caso”, afirmou a parlamentar.

A Rússia tem recebido críticas de diversos chefes de Estado, como dos Estados Unidos e da Islândia, além de protestos e até um beijaço mundial, após aprovar lei que pune o que chamam de “propaganda gay” e adoção de crianças por casais homossexuais este ano.

http://paroutudo.com/2013/08/12/politicos-alemaes-defendem-asilo-para-gays-russos-no-pais/

Transgender teen killed by mob in Jamaica as country addresses long-standing discrimination

in: http://www.edmontonjournal.com/life/Transgender+teen+killed+Jamaica+country+addresses/8774929/story.html


In this Aug. 5, 2013 photo, street graffiti with an anti-gay message covers part of a privacy wall in the Papine neighborhood of Kingston, Jamaica. Advocates say much of the homophobia is fueled by a nearly 150-year-old anti-sodomy law that bans anal sex as well as by dancehall reggae performers who flaunt anti-gay themes. The island’s main gay rights group estimated that two homosexual men were killed for their sexual orientation last year, and 36 were the victims of mob violence. (AP Photo/David McFadden)

 

Dwayne Jones was relentlessly teased in high school for being effeminate until he dropped out. His father not only kicked him out of the house at the age of 14 but also helped jeering neighbours push the youngster from the rough Jamaican slum where he grew up.

By age 16, the teenager was dead — beaten, stabbed, shot and run over by a car when he showed up at a street party dressed as a woman. His mistake: confiding to a friend that he was attending a "straight" party as a girl for the first time in his life.

"When I saw Dwayne's body, I started shaking and crying," said Khloe, one of three transgender friends who shared a derelict house with the teenager in the hills above the north coast city of Montego Bay. Like many transgender and gay people in Jamaica, Khloe wouldn't give a full name out of fear.

"It was horrible. It was so, so painful to see him like that."

International advocacy groups often portray this Caribbean island as the most hostile country in the Western Hemisphere for gay and transgender people. After two prominent gay rights activists were murdered, a researcher with the U.S.-based Human Rights Watch in 2006 called the environment in Jamaica for such groups "the worst any of us has ever seen."

Local activists have since disputed that label, but still say homophobia is pervasive. Dwayne's horrific July 22 murder has made headlines in newspapers on the island and stirred calls in some quarters for doing more to protect Jamaica's gay community, especially those who live on the streets and resort to sex work.

Advocates say much of the homophobia is fueled by a nearly 150-year-old anti-sodomy law that bans anal sex as well as by dancehall reggae performers who flaunt anti-gay themes. The island's main gay rights group estimated that two homosexual men were killed for their sexual orientation last year, and 36 were the victims of mob violence.

For years, Jamaica's gay community has lived so far underground that their parties and church services were held in secret locations. Many gays have stuck to a "don't ask, don't tell" policy of keeping their sexual orientation hidden to avoid scrutiny or protect loved ones.

"Judging by comments made on social media, most Jamaicans think Dwayne Jones brought his death on himself for wearing a dress and dancing in a society that has made it abundantly clear that homosexuals are neither to be seen nor heard," said Annie Paul, a blogger and publications officer at Jamaica's campus of the University of the West Indies.

Some say the hostility partly stems from the legacy of slavery when black men were sometimes sodomized as punishment or humiliation. Some historians believe that practice carried over into a general dread of homosexuality.

But in recent years, emboldened young people such as Dwayne have helped bring the island's gay and transgender community out of the shadows. A small group of gay runaways now rowdily congregates on the streets of Kingston's financial district.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller's government has also vowed to put the anti-sodomy law to a "conscience vote" in Parliament, and she said during her 2011 campaign that only merit would decide who got a Cabinet position in her government. By contrast, former Prime Minister Bruce Golding said in 2008 that he would never allow homosexuals in his Cabinet.

Dane Lewis, executive director of the Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals & Gays, said there were increasing "pockets of tolerance" on the island.

"We can say that we are becoming more tolerant. And thankfully that's because of people like Dwayne who have helped push the envelope," said Lewis, one of the few Jamaican gays who will publicly disclose his full name.

Yet rights groups still complain of the slow pace of the investigation into Jones' murder, despite the justice minister calling for a full probe.

Police spokesman Steve Brown said detectives working the case are struggling to overcome a chronic problem: a strong anti-informant culture that makes eyewitnesses to murders and other crimes too afraid or simply unwilling to come forward.

Even though some 300 people were at the dance party in the small riverside community of Irwin, police have yet to make a single arrest in Dwayne's murder. Police say witnesses have said they couldn't see the attackers' faces.

Dwayne was the centre of attraction shortly after arriving in a taxi at 2 a.m. with his two 23-year-old housemates, Khloe and Keke. Dwayne's expert dance moves, long legs and high cheekbones quickly made him the one that the guys were trying to get next to.

Like many Jamaican homosexuals, Dwayne was careful about confiding in others about his sexual orientation. But when he saw a girl he had known from church, he told her he was attending the party in drag.

Minutes later, according to Khloe and Keke, the girl's male friends gathered around Dwayne in the dimly-lit street asking: "Are you a woman or a man?" One man waved a lighter's flame near Dwayne's sneakers, asking whether a girl could have such big feet.

Then, his friends said, another man grabbed a lantern from an outdoor bar and walked over to Dwayne, shining the bright light over him from head to toe. "It's a man," he concluded, while the others hissed "batty boy" and other anti-gay epithets.

Khloe says she tried to steer him away from the crowd, whispering in Dwayne's ear: "Walk with me, walk with me." But Dwayne pulled away, loudly insisting to partygoers that he was a girl. When someone behind him snapped his bra strap, the teen panicked and raced down the street.

But he couldn't run fast enough to escape the mob.

The teenager was viciously assaulted and apparently half-conscious for some two hours before another sustained attack finished him off, according to Khloe, who was also beaten and nearly raped. She hid in a nearby church and then the surrounding woods, unable to call for help because she didn't have her cellphone.

Dwayne's father in the Montego Bay slum of North Gully didn't want to talk about his son's life or death. The teen's family wouldn't even claim the body, according to Dwayne's friends.

They remembered him as a spirited boy with a contagious laugh who dreamt of becoming a performer like Lady Gaga. He was also a street-smart hustler who resorted to sleeping in the bushes or on beaches when he became homeless. He won a local dancing competition during his time on the streets and was affectionately nicknamed "Gully Queen."

"He was the youngest of us but he was a diva," Khloe said. "He was always very feisty and joking around."

Inside their squatter house, Khloe and Keke said, they still talk to their dead friend.

"I'll be cooking in the kitchen and I'll say, 'Dwayne, you hungry?' or something like that," said Keke while sitting on the old mattress in her bedroom, flinching as neighbourhood dogs barked outside. "We just miss him all the time. Sometimes I think I see him."

But down the hall, Dwayne's room is empty except for pink window curtains decorated with roses, his favourite flower.

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/life/Transgender+teen+killed+Jamaica+country+addresses/8774929/story.html

Relação homossexual em 'The Sims' foi feita sem autorização da EA

in: http://games.terra.com.br/relacao-homossexual-em-the-sims-foi-feita-sem-autorizacao-da-ea,65270ce967950410VgnVCM20000099cceb0aRCRD.html

Programador homossexual alterou o código sem perguntar para estúdio e nunca foi repreendido pela EA Maxis

Em 'The Sims' é possível ter relacionamentos com parceiros do mesmo sexo e até adotar crianças

Foto: Reprodução

 

Na GaymerX, evento de games voltado para o público LGBT, que aconteceu em São Francisco, no último final de semana, o desenvolvedor de The Sims 4, David "Rez" Graham, contou como outro programador da Electronic Arts permitiu que personagens do mesmo sexo se relaciossem dentro do jogo. As informações são do site Gamasutra.

Meses antes do lançamento do simulador de vida humana, em 2000, o programador Jamie Doornbos alterou o código que possibilitava a ação sem consultar ninguém. E o estúdio EA Maxis nem se importou.

“Ele foi lá um dia e fez. E ninguém questionou sobre isso, o que foi bem legal. Ele tem reputação de chegar e fazer as coisas, então ele escreveu o código sem nenhuma reunião ou discussão”, disse Graham em uma mesa de discussão sobre como a EA traz uma audiência diversificada para seus jogos.

De acordo com o desenvolvedor, Doornbos, que é homossexual, não foi questionado sobre a ação porque The Sims é um jogo causal. “Seria muito mais difícil se isso fosse feito em um grande jogo AAA”, contou.

Graham ainda explicou que proibir a relação entre personagens do mesmo sexo seria um trabalho extra que não justifica a comparação com “o fator repugnância” de outros tabus sociais. “Quando você tem que especificadamente escrever um código para prevenir incesto, homossexualismo parece bastante brando”, apontou.

“Homossexualismo não é novo, é algo que existe no mundo e nós, da Maxis, estamos tentando simular as pessoas em nosso mundo. A conversa não é sobre se incluímos, mas como incluímos isso”, concluiu.

http://games.terra.com.br/relacao-homossexual-em-the-sims-foi-feita-sem-autorizacao-da-ea,65270ce967950410VgnVCM20000099cceb0aRCRD.html

Lady Gaga defende comunidade LGBT na Rússia

in: http://myway.pt.msn.com/noticia/lady_gaga_defende_comunidade_lgbt_na_russia_15924.aspx

Lady Gaga respondeu ao governo da Rússia, depois de este ter revelado que a cantora poderia ser investigada por ter desrespeitado as regras de visto durante o seu concerto no país. O pedido foi feito pelo criador da «lei anti-gay», que também pediu uma investigação a Madonna. No Facebook, Gaga defendeu a comunidade LGBT na Rússia e deixou a pergunta: «Porque é que não prendeste quando tiveste oportunidade, Rússia? Foi porque não queriam responder ao mundo?».

A Rússia aprovou recentemente, em várias regiões, a lei «anti-gay», contra a «propaganda de relações sexuais não tradicionais», proibindo, por exemplo, paradas gay. A lei proíbe a presença de casais estrangeiros do mesmo sexo, permitindo mesmo que a polícia detenha turistas que suspeite serem homossexuais, ou alguém que fale sobre homossexualidade às crianças. O casamento entre casais do mesmo sexo, e adopção por pessoas solteiras que venham de países onde o casamento entre pessoas do mesmo sexo seja permitido são também proibidos

Na sua página oficial de Facebook, Lady Gaga escreveu: «A enviar bravura para os LGBTs na Rússia. O crescimento do abuso governamental é arcaico. Afastar adolescentes com spray pimenta? Espancamentos? Mãe Rússia? O governo russo é criminoso. A opressão vai conhecer revolução. LGBTs da Rússia, vocês não estão sozinhos. Vamos lutar pela vossa liberdade. Porque é que não me prendeste quando tiveste oportunidade, Rússia? Porque não querias responder ao mundo?».

Lady Gaga, tal como Madonna, opuseram-se à lei que proíbe a propaganda gay durante os seus concertos em São Petersburgo, o que é ilegal no país, tendo em conta que estavam menores na plateia.

http://myway.pt.msn.com/noticia/lady_gaga_defende_comunidade_lgbt_na_russia_15924.aspx

US: Gay couple told to sit at the back of a bus for holding hands in public

in: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/04/us-gay-couple-told-to-sit-at-the-back-of-a-bus-for-holding-hands-in-public/





A gay couple have said that a bus driver in the US state of New Mexico told them to sit at the back of the bus because they were holding hands.

Ron McCoy and Chris Bowers had flown into Albuquerque from Portland, Oregon on 28 June, and were in New Mexico for a road trip through the South West, reports KCTV 5.

They were to attend Pride Fest in Albuquerque. The couple sat at the front of a shuttle bus when its driver noticed they were holding hands, he told them to sit at the back.

“I saw him look at us, look down at his hands and he looked so angry. He just blurted out at me, “He goes, OK if you’re going to do that,” said McCoy. “You’re going to the back of the bus.”

Because the couple did not want to cause trouble, they went to sit at the back, but did ask the driver why he had asked them to do so.

“I said ‘I think it was because you didn’t like the fact that I was holding my partner’s hand.’ He goes, ‘see now you’re telling on yourself.’ My partner responds, ‘well that’s discrimination.’ And the driver responds, ‘you’re telling on yourself again,’” he continued.

Bernadette Aguirre, who was witness to the exchange, stepped in, saying: ”I told the bus driver that I was completely appalled that anybody would be treated this way.”

McCoy said the driver then pointed to the couple and said the fact that they were holding hands was what he found appalling.

Sunport, which runs the shuttle busses said it was embarrassed by the driver’s behaviour.

“First and foremost, it’s absolutely unacceptable,” said Sunport spokesperson Dan Jiron. “We immediately got in touch with Standard Parking to assess what exactly happened. They acknowledged this was a mistake on the part of the driver.”

The couple, who say noone has attempted to contact them to issue an apology, have filed a complaint with the American Civil Liberties Union.

The shuttle bus company is now requiring all of its drivers to undergo sensitivity training.

http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/04/us-gay-couple-told-to-sit-at-the-back-of-a-bus-for-holding-hands-in-public/

Raven-Symone says she's a lesbian, grateful for legalized gay marriage

in: http://www.cnn.com/2013/08/02/showbiz/raven-symone-comes-out

 

Raven-Symone, who played 3-year-old Olivia on the 1980s sitcom "The Cosby Show," indicated for the first time Friday that she is a lesbian.

"I am very happy that gay marriage is opening up around the country and is being accepted," the actress said in a statement through her representatives.

"I was excited to hear today that more states legalized gay marriage. I, however am not currently getting married, but it is great to know I can now, should I wish to," she said.

Earlier Friday, Symone posted a tweet: "I can finally get married! Yay government! So proud of you."

In response to media inquiries after that tweet, her representatives said that "Raven is not getting married. She was just supporting the fact that she heard on NPR that more states legalized gay marriage today."

Symone then subsequently issued her official statement.

In the past, she has said her sexual orientation was a private matter. "My sexual orientation is mine, and the person I'm datings to know. I'm not one for a public display of my life," she wrote on her Twitter page in May 2012.

After "The Cosby Show," Symone was featured with Eddie Murphy in his "Dr. Dolittle" films and starred in Disney Channel's "That's So Raven."

http://www.cnn.com/2013/08/02/showbiz/raven-symone-comes-out

Canadian Olympians march for tolerance at Vancouver Pride Parade

in: http://www.edmontonjournal.com/sports/Canadian+Olympians+march+tolerance+Vancouver+Pride+Parade/8748166/story.html

Two Olympians representing Canada's Olympic Team marched in Vancouver's Pride Parade today.

Canadian Olympic officials say it was an effort to spread a message of tolerance, acceptance and diversity in light of Russia's anti-gay laws and the upcoming 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi.

Alpine skier and 2010 Olympian Mike Janyk and two-time Olympian snowboarder Mercedes Nicoll joined Pride participants as they marched through Vancouver's downtown and the West End.

Canadian Olympic Committee president Marcel Aubut says the coming together of COC and Pride is a reminder that sport is open to everyone, regardless of race, religion, creed or sexual orientation.

Anti-gay laws in Russia have provoked strong protest from Canada's gay community, and anti-Russian sentiment was visible throughout Sunday's Parade.

At least one marcher wore a T-shirt and hoisted a sign featuring a photoshopped image of Russian President Vladimir Putin wearing blue eye shadow and blush.

This is the first time the COC has participated in Pride festivals across the country — Olympians have already marched in Toronto and will also be present in the upcoming Pride celebrations in Ottawa, Calgary and Montreal.

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/sports/Canadian+Olympians+march+tolerance+Vancouver+Pride+Parade/8748166/story.html

Canada: Vancouver kiss-in takes place outside Russian consulate to protest anti-gay laws

in: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/03/canada-vancouver-kiss-in-takes-place-outside-russian-consulate-to-protest-anti-gay-laws/

 

A kiss-in intended to show solidarity with the LGBT community in Russia in the wake of the passage of new anti-gay laws, has taken place in Vancouver outside the Russian consulate.

President Vladimir Putin signed the law in June banning the promotion of “non-traditional relationships” toward minors, a move that has been criticised as part of a broader crackdown on Russia’s gay community.

Around 50 protesters gathered outside the consulate to kiss, with both men and women engaging in same-sex kissing, which according to the new federal law would be deemed illegal.

Yogi Omar, who organised the protest said it was important that the protesters did what they did.

“Something that is considered as gay propaganda in Russia, for us here is an act of love,” he said.

Demonstrator Winifred Tovey has said she was drawn to the kiss-in in the name of global gay rights.

“I think it’s important for those of us … in this much safer society to put our solidarity into the public eye,” Tovey said.

As well as the law banning homosexual “propaganda”, Russia also recently added a law banning the adoption of Russian children by same-sex foreign couples.

Last month, speaking exclusively to PinkNews, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg urged Russia to protect the rights of LGBT citizens following concerns about gay athletes and spectators attending the 2014 Winter Olympics.

He said: “Those days should be long behind us now and for those countries and those governments and regimes who don’t see it that way I think they have to move with the times.”

An organisation representing LGBT people in Russia announced last month that it is opposed to a boycott of the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics – because they say participation is an important way of highlighting injustice.

http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/03/canada-vancouver-kiss-in-takes-place-outside-russian-consulate-to-protest-anti-gay-laws/

US: Same-sex couples to be given equal immigration rights

in: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/02/us-same-sex-couples-to-be-given-equal-immigration-rights/


The United States is set to begin giving visa applications from same-sex spouses the same preferential treatment granted to opposite-sex spouses.

Secretary of State John F. Kerry said on Friday that the policy change means a foreign citizen married to a US citizen can more easily obtain a US entry visa, and that applications from foreign same-sex married couples will be considered on a joint basis.

He said: “If you’re the spouse of a US citizen, your visa application will be treated equally. If you’re the spouse of a non-citizen, your visa application will be treated equally”.

Mr Kerry made the announcement in the consular section of the US Embassy in London, one of the largest in the world.

“As long as a marriage has been performed in a jurisdiction that recognizes it, so that it is legal, then that marriage is valid under US immigration laws, and every married couple will be treated exactly the same,” Mr Kerry said.

He said that the change results from a review of State Department regulations following the Supreme Court’s overturning of the Defense of Marriage Act in June.

Previously, all applicants seeking to enter the US were considered on a case by case basis unless they were an opposite-sex married couple.

This was not the case for US citizens who married their foreign partners in states or countries where same-sex marriage is legal and then sought to bring their spouses to the United States to work or live.

Married same-sex couples from the 15 countries with national laws legalising same-sex marriage will be evaluated for visas together, as will same-sex applicants from states in Mexico that have legalised same-sex marriage.

Mexico, like the US, has legalised same-sex marriage only in some of its states.

The State Department said the new policy will apply equally at all 222 visa-processing posts worldwide, whether those posts are in countries that have legalised same-sex marriage or not.

In June, a New York City immigration judge immediately stopped the deportation of a gay Colombian man who is legally married to an American citizen just minutes after the Supreme Court struck down the Defense of Marriage Act.

In January it was revealed that plans laid out by President Barack Obama for immigration reform had included provisions for recognising same-sex families from different countries, and allowing visas for same-sex couples wishing to live in the US.


http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/08/02/us-same-sex-couples-to-be-given-equal-immigration-rights/

Pope Francis: Who am I to judge gay people?

in: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/07/29/pope-francis-i-wont-judge-gay-priests-and-gay-people-should-not-be-marginalised/


In a significant development Pope Francis has said that gay people should not be judged or marginalized and should be integrated into society.

Speaking to reporters on Monday during a plane journey back to the Vatican following his trip to Brazil, the global Catholic leader said: “If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?”

However, he also referred to the Catholic Church’s universal Catechism, which states that while being gay is not sinful, homosexual acts are.

“The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains this very well. It says they should not be marginalised because of this, but that they must be integrated into society,” he said.

Pope Francis has often used emotive language in order to state his opposition towards equality – and today’s comments are striking.

Three years ago as cardinal he warned that efforts to legalise equal marriage in Argentina would “confuse and deceive the children of God.”

In June, he warned the French against following “fashionable ideas” in relation to the country’s equal marriage law. 

Onboard his flight back to Rome, the 76-year-old was also quizzed by journalists about allegations of indiscretion regarding the Prelate of the Vatican bank, Monsignor Battista Ricca.

Monsignor Ricca is facing claims of inappropriate sexual behaviour and reportedly offered to resign.

Pope Francis said he had investigated the claims and found nothing to back up the allegations.

According to the National Catholic Reporter, he said: “I did what canon law requires, which is to conduct a preliminary investigation. We didn’t find anything to confirm the things he was accused of, there was nothing … I’d like to add that many times we seem to seek out the sins of somebody’s youth and publish them. We’re not talking about crimes, which are something else.

“The abuse of minors, for instance, is a crime. But one can sin and then convert, and the Lord both forgives and forgets. We don’t have the right to refuse to forget … it’s dangerous. The theology of sin is important. St Peter committed one of the greatest sins, denying Christ, and yet they made him pope! Think about that.”
Turning to the issue of women priests, he said the Church had spoken and had said “no”, but the role of women should not be restricted.

“We cannot limit the role of women in the Church to altar girls or the president of a charity, there must be more,” he said.

Pope Francis joked about claims of a “gay lobby” operating at the heart of the Vatican by saying: “There’s a lot of talk about the gay lobby, but I’ve never seen it on the Vatican ID card!”

“When I meet a gay person, I have to distinguish between their being gay and being part of a lobby. If they accept the Lord and have good will, who am I to judge them? They shouldn’t be marginalised. The tendency [of homosexuality] is not the problem … they’re our brothers.”

“The problem is not having this orientation,” he said. “We must be brothers. The problem is lobbying by this orientation, or lobbies of greedy people, political lobbies, Masonic lobbies, so many lobbies. This is the worse problem.”

In June, a Latin American Catholic Church group apologised for the “confusion” caused by the publication of members’ accounts of a meeting with Pope Francis where he was quoted as referring to a “gay lobby” inside the Vatican’s secretive administration, the Curia.

The Latin American and Caribbean Confederation of Religious (CLAR) stressed the Pope’s comments had not been recorded but were what CLAR members remembered of his answers to their questions.
Pope Francis was asked about the panel of cardinals he has set up to help him reform the Curia, the Catholic Church’s central administrative body.

He was quoted as replying: “…it is difficult. In the Curia, there are also holy people, really, there are holy people. But there also is a stream of corruption, there is that as well, it is true… The ‘gay lobby’ is mentioned, and it is true, it is there… We need to see what we can do…”



http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/07/29/pope-francis-i-wont-judge-gay-priests-and-gay-people-should-not-be-marginalised/

Rainbow flags burned outside Fort McMurray’s first gay pride event

in: http://www.edmontonjournal.com/Rainbow+flags+burned+outside+Fort+McMurray+first+pride+event/8723395/story.html

 Patrons celebrate on Saturday night at Fort McMurray’s first ever gay pride event by the LGBTQmunity called Pride

 

 

 

 

 

 Fort McMurray’s first gay pride event on Saturday night saw the “hurtful” burning of two gay pride flags, organizers say.

Almost 100 people were at Bailey’s Pub in Fort McMurray for an LGBTQmunity event called Pride @ The Pub when two rainbow flags went missing.

The flags, which represent the diversity of the LGBT community, would later end up burnt in a nearby parking lot.

“I can’t say why they did it and I can’t say if it was hate fuelled,” said Sheldon Parsons, president of the LGBTQmunity in Fort McMurray. “But it’s hurtful to see something like that.”

Patrons were celebrating the event wearing rainbow sashes, fedoras and singing karaoke. Parsons said most people didn’t even know the incident had occurred.

Based on security camera video viewed by LGBTQmunity vice-president Michael Kenny, around 11 p.m. the theft of one of the flags is visible. The incident occurred in the parking lot outside of the pub. Kenny said that once the burning took place, security guards approached those involved and asked them not to return to the pub. Kenny has since turned the videos over to the RCMP, who are reviewing them.

As someone who has grown up in Fort McMurray, Parsons said that the city has been “moving in the right direction” when it comes to accepting the LGBTQ community.

“I have been watching Fort McMurray change and grow,” Parsons said. “But there are still changes that have to happen within the community.”

At at this time, Kenny said they are viewing the incident as a hate crime, but he believes issues such as these are more about awareness than hate.

This was the first large-scale gay pride event the city. Kenny said the more events they hold, the more the community can get used to their presence. Eventually, Kenny hopes to hold a gay pride parade similar to ones in Edmonton and Calgary.

Kenny reviewed the videos on Sunday after he heard of the incident. He filed a complaint with the RCMP Monday morning and said the videos show clear images of the people involved.

Const. Christina Wilkins of the Wood Buffalo RCMP said they have received the complaint and are currently investigating.

There is hope that this incident can have a positive effect in Fort McMurray, Kenny said.

“I believe it will spark a wider public discussion addressing homophobia in the community.”

 

 

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/Rainbow+flags+burned+outside+Fort+McMurray+first+pride+event/8723395/story.html