The upcoming American midterm elections are creating history; the good kind. For the first time, the elections have LGBTQ candidates running in all 50 US states and the capital Washington.

As per AFP, the monumental milestone comes as the LGBTQ community has become an increasingly significant voting constituency. Analysts predict that the surge in transgender and gay voters might redraw the electoral landscape over the next generation, "nudging the conservative US heartland in a more liberal direction."

Watch |&nbsp;US Midterms 2022: Democrats and Republicans vying for control of Senate

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-midterms-2022-democrats-and-republicans-vying-for-control-of-senate-530186/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Currently, the community represents around 10 per cent of American voters, however, as per an October report by a lobby group in collaboration with&nbsp;Bowling Green State University, Ohio, the number will by the end of this decade rise to one in seven or 14-plus per cent.

"Bigots want us to stay home and stay quiet, but their attacks are backfiring and instead have motivated a new wave of LGBTQ leaders to run for office," says Annise Parker, head of the LGBTQ Victory Fund and former Houston mayor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterm-elections-biden-targets-desantis-marco-rubio-during-campaign-rally-in-florida-530463" hreflang="en">US midterm elections: Biden targets DeSantis, Marco Rubio during campaign rally in Florida</a>

Parker's organisation in a recent report found that since 2020 there has been an 18 per cent increase in LGBTQ hopefuls who successfully made it onto ballots.

For the November midterms, 1,065 hopefuls ran primary campaigns and a historic 678 successfully made it onto ballots. AFP reports that almost 90 per cent of the LGBTQ candidates who entered this year's primary races belong to the Democrat party.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democracy-is-at-stake-in-us-midterms-says-obama-at-georgia-rally-529489" hreflang="en">Democracy is at stake in US midterms, says Obama at Georgia rally</a>

Another significant first for the community is Vermont House candidate Becca Balint who would be the only lesbian ever sent by the state to Congress.

Human Rights Campaign (HRC), which is the United States' largest gay rights group pointed out that the candidate statistics stand for significant progress in 2022, a year that saw more than 340 anti-LGBTQ bill proposals across the country. These bills include the controversial 'Don't Say Gay' bills and the ones seeking to ban transgender children from participating in school sports.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The upcoming American midterm elections are creating history; the good kind. For the first time, the elections have LGBTQ candidates running in all 50 US states and the capital Washington.

The upcoming American midterm elections are creating history; the good kind. For the first time, the elections have LGBTQ candidates running in all 50 US states and the capital Washington. As per AFP, the monumental milestone comes as the LGBTQ community has become an increasingly significant voting constituency. Analysts predict that the surge in transgender and gay voters might redraw the electoral landscape over the next generation, "nudging the conservative US heartland in a more liberal direction." Watch | US Midterms 2022: Democrats and Republicans vying for control of Senate Currently, the community represents around 10 per cent of American voters, however, as per an October report by a lobby group in collaboration with Bowling Green State University, Ohio, the number will by the end of this decade rise to one in seven or 14-plus per cent. "Bigots want us to stay home and stay quiet, but their attacks are backfiring and instead have motivated a new wave of LGBTQ leaders to run for office," says Annise Parker, head of the LGBTQ Victory Fund and former Houston mayor. Also read | US midterm elections: Biden targets DeSantis, Marco Rubio during campaign rally in Florida Parker's organisation in a recent report found that since 2020 there has been an 18 per cent increase in LGBTQ hopefuls who successfully made it onto ballots. For the November midterms, 1,065 hopefuls ran primary campaigns and a historic 678 successfully made it onto ballots. AFP reports that almost 90 per cent of the LGBTQ candidates who entered this year's primary races belong to the Democrat party. Also read | Democracy is at stake in US midterms, says Obama at Georgia rally Another significant first for the community is Vermont House candidate Becca Balint who would be the only lesbian ever sent by the state to Congress. Human Rights Campaign (HRC), which is the United States' largest gay rights group pointed out that the candidate statistics stand for significant progress in 2022, a year that saw more than 340 anti-LGBTQ bill proposals across the country. These bills include the controversial 'Don't Say Gay' bills and the ones seeking to ban transgender children from participating in school sports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US mid-term elections 2022: In a first, LGBTQ candidates to contest from all 50 states

On Sunday (October 09), former Real Madrid and Spain's legendary goalkeeper Iker Casillas broke the internet by coming out as gay on his Twitter account. The 41-year-old&nbsp;made a public announcement on Twitter saying, "I hope you respect me: I'm gay."

In the recent past, many sporting celebrities have come out in the open and admitted their sexual preferences. While Casillas' revelation might have shocked many, a few hours later the post was taken down.

Before the tweet was deleted, Casillas' Spain teammate and Barcelona legend Carles Puyol also backed the former and wrote on Twitter, "It's time to tell our stories, Iker".&nbsp;However, this tweet was also nowhere to be seen after some time.

Later, Casillas clarified that his Twitter account was hacked and the tweet was completely a mistake. In addition, he&nbsp;apologized to the LGBTQ community for hurting their sentiments. He wrote, "Hacked account. Luckily everything in order. Apologies to all my followers. And of course, more apologies to the LGBT community."

<img alt="Iker Casillas tweets he is NOT gay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d573eeef-1369-4f14-9a5f-c4c74889880e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iker%20Casillas%20tweets%20he%20is%20NOT%20gay.jpg" />

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/700-goals-cristiano-ronaldo-achieves-huge-landmark-to-lead-manchester-united-to-win-at-everton-523896">700 goals! Cristiano Ronaldo achieves huge landmark to lead Manchester United to win at Everton</a>

It is to be noted that&nbsp;Casillas tied the knot with&nbsp;Spanish sports presenter Sara Carbonero and the couple were married for&nbsp;five years, having two children together. They called the marriage off in early 2021.&nbsp;Since then, the Spanish legend has been linked with different women at regular intervals. Some reports have even suggested that Casillas' post was a sarcastic reply to all the links up post his divorce.&nbsp;

On Sunday (October 09), former Real Madrid and Spain's legendary goalkeeper Iker Casillas broke the internet by coming out as gay on his Twitter account. The 41-year-old made a public announcement on Twitter saying, "I hope you respect me: I'm gay.

On Sunday (October 09), former Real Madrid and Spain's legendary goalkeeper Iker Casillas broke the internet by coming out as gay on his Twitter account. The 41-year-old made a public announcement on Twitter saying, "I hope you respect me: I'm gay." In the recent past, many sporting celebrities have come out in the open and admitted their sexual preferences. While Casillas' revelation might have shocked many, a few hours later the post was taken down. Before the tweet was deleted, Casillas' Spain teammate and Barcelona legend Carles Puyol also backed the former and wrote on Twitter, "It's time to tell our stories, Iker". However, this tweet was also nowhere to be seen after some time. Later, Casillas clarified that his Twitter account was hacked and the tweet was completely a mistake. In addition, he apologized to the LGBTQ community for hurting their sentiments. He wrote, "Hacked account. Luckily everything in order. Apologies to all my followers. And of course, more apologies to the LGBT community." ALSO READ | 700 goals! Cristiano Ronaldo achieves huge landmark to lead Manchester United to win at Everton It is to be noted that Casillas tied the knot with Spanish sports presenter Sara Carbonero and the couple were married for five years, having two children together. They called the marriage off in early 2021. Since then, the Spanish legend has been linked with different women at regular intervals. Some reports have even suggested that Casillas' post was a sarcastic reply to all the links up post his divorce.

Spaniard Iker Casillas comes out as gay, later deletes tweet claiming his account was hacked

The National Electoral Council of Cuba declared same-sex marriages as legal after citizens approved a new family law that boosts the rights of minorities. As per the electoral, 74.1 per cent of people turned out to vote in Sunday's referendum.

On Monday, 94 per cent of the votes were tallied in which over three million people voted in favour, with disapproval standing at a little over a million votes.

The family code, provides great security for women, children, and elderly people, while also permitting marriage and adoption for LGBTQ couples.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/matrimonycom-launches-matchmaking-platform-for-lgbtqia-community-513774">Also read |&nbsp;Matchmaking website launches first-ever platform for LGBTQIA+ in India</a>

People in Cuba, the communist-run island, experienced discrimination for many years. One such instance that counts is after Fidel Castro came to power in the early 1960s, during which many LGBTQ people were sent to government camps along with political dissidents. However, Castro's daughter, Mariela, has publicly advocated for the rights of gays, lesbians, and others, CNN reported.

Despite the fact that homosexuality was made legal in Cuba in 1979, many gay men and women claimed that they were several times subjected to outright discrimination.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/hong-kong-court-rejects-appeal-to-recognise-same-sex-couples-married-overseas-509836">Also read |&nbsp;Hong Kong court rejects appeal to recognise same-sex couples married overseas</a>

Outside and within the Cuban government, the community for their rights faced stiff opposition. Due to concerns that homophobic backlash might reduce voter turnout for the referendum, Cuban legislators in 2018 abandoned provisions that would have legalised same-sex marriages.

Cuba's expanding population has actively been arguing against implementing the family code. The Cuban government, however, made a full court ouch in support of this new family code, arguing that the new code is an example to show the island's revolution and its ability to adapt with time.

&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The National Electoral Council of Cuba declared same-sex marriages as legal after citizens approved a new family law that boosts the rights of minorities. As per the electoral, 74.

The National Electoral Council of Cuba declared same-sex marriages as legal after citizens approved a new family law that boosts the rights of minorities. As per the electoral, 74.1 per cent of people turned out to vote in Sunday's referendum. On Monday, 94 per cent of the votes were tallied in which over three million people voted in favour, with disapproval standing at a little over a million votes. The family code, provides great security for women, children, and elderly people, while also permitting marriage and adoption for LGBTQ couples. Also read | Matchmaking website launches first-ever platform for LGBTQIA+ in India People in Cuba, the communist-run island, experienced discrimination for many years. One such instance that counts is after Fidel Castro came to power in the early 1960s, during which many LGBTQ people were sent to government camps along with political dissidents. However, Castro's daughter, Mariela, has publicly advocated for the rights of gays, lesbians, and others, CNN reported. Despite the fact that homosexuality was made legal in Cuba in 1979, many gay men and women claimed that they were several times subjected to outright discrimination. Also read | Hong Kong court rejects appeal to recognise same-sex couples married overseas Outside and within the Cuban government, the community for their rights faced stiff opposition. Due to concerns that homophobic backlash might reduce voter turnout for the referendum, Cuban legislators in 2018 abandoned provisions that would have legalised same-sex marriages. Cuba's expanding population has actively been arguing against implementing the family code. The Cuban government, however, made a full court ouch in support of this new family code, arguing that the new code is an example to show the island's revolution and its ability to adapt with time. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Cuba legalises same-sex marriages in landmark referendum after citizens approve new family code 

English Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham says he has been told LGBTQ+ fans won't be arrested for holding hands or kissing in public at the World Cup in Qatar. The LGBTQ+ community had raised concerns over how safe they will be at the tournament in November-December as same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the Gulf state.

Some English LGBTQ+ fans will reportedly stay away from the World Cup because they have not received adequate assurances. But Bullingham revealed on Wednesday that he has been told police in Qatar are briefed to be tolerant during the tournament. Asked whether the FA had planned for the scenario of an England fan being arrested for holding hands or kissing a same-sex partner in public, Bullingham said: "We have been asking those questions of the Qatari authorities over the last six months.

"They have absolutely told us all the right answers for anything we've talked about, even down to the point of 'are rainbow flags allowed?' "Yes, absolutely (they are allowed) as long as someone doesn't go and drape them on&nbsp;the outside of a mosque - that was one example we were given - and were disrespectful in that way. "But they have absolutely been briefed to be very tolerant and act in the right way. Any time we ask a direct question we tend to get an answer."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-sack-director-damian-willoughby-within-a-month-for-inappropriate-messages-sent-to-female-agent-518425">Chelsea sack director Damian Willoughby for 'inappropriate messages' sent to female agent</a>

Despite those assurances, FA chiefs are still requesting more detail from the local organising committee that all fans, including those from the LGBTQ+ community, will be safe and secure in Qatar. The FA has joined nine other European federations in joining the 'OneLove' anti-discrimination campaign.&nbsp;

England captain Harry Kane will wear a rainbow armband supporting the campaign at the World Cup. "As captains we may all be competing against each other on the pitch, but we stand&nbsp;together against all forms of discrimination," Kane said. "This is even more relevant at a time when division is common in society. Wearing the armband together on behalf of our teams will send a clear message when the world is watching."

Bullingham said the FA are also lobbying FIFA for an update regarding a compensation scheme for migrant workers in Qatar and the creation of a centre to help those workers access support.

"We continue to push for the principle of compensation for the families of migrant workers who have lost their lives or have been injured in construction projects," he said. "Again, we are pushing FIFA for an update on the compensation fund which has been consistently referenced as a safety net where workers and their families have been unable to secure compensation from the construction companies."

English Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham says he has been told LGBTQ+ fans won't be arrested for holding hands or kissing in public at the World Cup in Qatar.

English Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham says he has been told LGBTQ+ fans won't be arrested for holding hands or kissing in public at the World Cup in Qatar. The LGBTQ+ community had raised concerns over how safe they will be at the tournament in November-December as same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the Gulf state. Some English LGBTQ+ fans will reportedly stay away from the World Cup because they have not received adequate assurances. But Bullingham revealed on Wednesday that he has been told police in Qatar are briefed to be tolerant during the tournament. Asked whether the FA had planned for the scenario of an England fan being arrested for holding hands or kissing a same-sex partner in public, Bullingham said: "We have been asking those questions of the Qatari authorities over the last six months. "They have absolutely told us all the right answers for anything we've talked about, even down to the point of 'are rainbow flags allowed?' "Yes, absolutely (they are allowed) as long as someone doesn't go and drape them on the outside of a mosque - that was one example we were given - and were disrespectful in that way. "But they have absolutely been briefed to be very tolerant and act in the right way. Any time we ask a direct question we tend to get an answer." ALSO READ | Chelsea sack director Damian Willoughby for 'inappropriate messages' sent to female agent Despite those assurances, FA chiefs are still requesting more detail from the local organising committee that all fans, including those from the LGBTQ+ community, will be safe and secure in Qatar. The FA has joined nine other European federations in joining the 'OneLove' anti-discrimination campaign. England captain Harry Kane will wear a rainbow armband supporting the campaign at the World Cup. "As captains we may all be competing against each other on the pitch, but we stand together against all forms of discrimination," Kane said. "This is even more relevant at a time when division is common in society. Wearing the armband together on behalf of our teams will send a clear message when the world is watching." Bullingham said the FA are also lobbying FIFA for an update regarding a compensation scheme for migrant workers in Qatar and the creation of a centre to help those workers access support. "We continue to push for the principle of compensation for the families of migrant workers who have lost their lives or have been injured in construction projects," he said. "Again, we are pushing FIFA for an update on the compensation fund which has been consistently referenced as a safety net where workers and their families have been unable to secure compensation from the construction companies."

FA chief says LGBTQ fans won't face arrest for kissing at FIFA World Cup in Qatar

An Orthodox Jewish university in New York was given temporary permission by the US Supreme Court to deny official recognition to an LGBTQ student group on Friday (September 9).

This permission comes after the university appealed to the court for an expedited ruling after a New York judge ordered the university to permit the Pride Alliance to form a student group, allowing them access to all services and facilities in the institute.

The university, in a statement, said, "As a deeply religious Jewish university, Yeshiva cannot comply with that order because doing so would violate its sincere religious beliefs about how to form its undergraduate students in Torah values," AFP reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-failed-to-curb-monkeypox-hate-speech-aimed-at-lgbtq-community-says-study-510379">Also read |&nbsp;Twitter failed to curb monkeypox hate speech aimed at LGBTQ community, says study</a>

In response to this statement, the Pride Group argued that the university also teaches various subjects other than religion and also has non-Jewish students. The group&nbsp;further added, "It may not deny certain students access to the non-religious resources it offers the entire student community on the basis of sexual orientation," AFP reported.

The group was formed in 2018 to hold meetings, organise lectures and participate in activities, and applied for its official recognition as a student group.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-marriage-to-the-death-penalty-lgbtq-rights-across-the-globe-509186">Also read |&nbsp;From marriage to death penalty: LGBTQIA rights across the globe</a>

The university, which was founded more than 100 years ago to promote Judaism, also offers varying degrees in fields that are not related to religion, like biology and accounting.

The Supreme Court suspended the judge's ruling with a 6-3 consecutive majority after the university's request. The court did not specify any reasoning or votes cast, as the decision was declared in emergency cases.

The US Supreme Court has made some favourable decisions for the LGBTQ&nbsp;community in recent months.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

An Orthodox Jewish university in New York was given temporary permission by the US Supreme Court to deny official recognition to an LGBTQ student group on Friday (September 9).

An Orthodox Jewish university in New York was given temporary permission by the US Supreme Court to deny official recognition to an LGBTQ student group on Friday (September 9). This permission comes after the university appealed to the court for an expedited ruling after a New York judge ordered the university to permit the Pride Alliance to form a student group, allowing them access to all services and facilities in the institute. The university, in a statement, said, "As a deeply religious Jewish university, Yeshiva cannot comply with that order because doing so would violate its sincere religious beliefs about how to form its undergraduate students in Torah values," AFP reported. Also read | Twitter failed to curb monkeypox hate speech aimed at LGBTQ community, says study In response to this statement, the Pride Group argued that the university also teaches various subjects other than religion and also has non-Jewish students. The group further added, "It may not deny certain students access to the non-religious resources it offers the entire student community on the basis of sexual orientation," AFP reported. The group was formed in 2018 to hold meetings, organise lectures and participate in activities, and applied for its official recognition as a student group. Also read | From marriage to death penalty: LGBTQIA rights across the globe The university, which was founded more than 100 years ago to promote Judaism, also offers varying degrees in fields that are not related to religion, like biology and accounting. The Supreme Court suspended the judge's ruling with a 6-3 consecutive majority after the university's request. The court did not specify any reasoning or votes cast, as the decision was declared in emergency cases. The US Supreme Court has made some favourable decisions for the LGBTQ community in recent months. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US Supreme Court permits Jewish university to temporarily deny recognition to LGBTQ students

From marriage to death penalty: LGBTQIA rights across the globe

In pics: Thousands of people march in Sao Paulo’s LGBTQ parade theme ‘Vote with pride’

Members of the LGBTQ community in Senegal forced to live in Exile due to constant harassment by the largely homophobic society in the West African nation.

World Of Africa: Homophobia on rise in Senegal

Former England wicket-keeper batter Steve Davis had become the first cricketer to publicly come out as gay. Now, New Zealand's former pacer Heath Davis has also followed suit. The ex-Kiwi speedster, who represented the national side in 5 Tests and 11 ODIs, recently came out of the closet and revealed that he is gay.

Recently, Davis shared his side of the story and revealed how sometimes his off-field struggles impacted his performances on the 22-yard cricket strip.&nbsp;"The first tour to England [in 1994], I was starting to discover myself, was going to a few bars and things privately to see what life was… well, you are on the other side of the world, no one is going to know you. I left that part of my life there. There was a lot of that, just keeping your personal life separate," Davis stated in a documentary series for The Spinoff called "Scratched: Aotearoa's Lost Sporting Legends".

He further asserted, "It was lonely. Going to saunas and seedy places to get sex because you didn't want to be seen and that sort of stuff. I had systems and people in place where I could talk about these things but I didn't feel comfortable."

The former Black Caps'&nbsp;pacer revealed that everyone in Auckland was aware of him being gay and also mentioned that his team members never had any issues knowing his sexual preferences as well.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pride-month-lgbtq-couples-in-sports-who-inspire-us-to-come-out-of-the-closet-489114">Pride Month: LGBTQ couples in sports who inspire us to come out of the closet</a>

"All the stars aligned to move," he said. "Everyone in Auckland knew I was gay; in the team it didn't seem to be that big an issue. Maybe some of the young ones if you're sharing a room with them or something, but just petty s**t. Things I thought might have been issues weren't really. I just felt free," he signed off.

While there are not many such revelations in the game of cricket, Davis' recent declaration has inspired many like him to also break the shackles and proudly open up in this regard.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former England wicket-keeper batter Steve Davis had become the first cricketer to publicly come out as gay. Now, New Zealand's former pacer Heath Davis has also followed suit.

Former England wicket-keeper batter Steve Davis had become the first cricketer to publicly come out as gay. Now, New Zealand's former pacer Heath Davis has also followed suit. The ex-Kiwi speedster, who represented the national side in 5 Tests and 11 ODIs, recently came out of the closet and revealed that he is gay. Recently, Davis shared his side of the story and revealed how sometimes his off-field struggles impacted his performances on the 22-yard cricket strip. "The first tour to England [in 1994], I was starting to discover myself, was going to a few bars and things privately to see what life was… well, you are on the other side of the world, no one is going to know you. I left that part of my life there. There was a lot of that, just keeping your personal life separate," Davis stated in a documentary series for The Spinoff called "Scratched: Aotearoa's Lost Sporting Legends". He further asserted, "It was lonely. Going to saunas and seedy places to get sex because you didn't want to be seen and that sort of stuff. I had systems and people in place where I could talk about these things but I didn't feel comfortable." The former Black Caps' pacer revealed that everyone in Auckland was aware of him being gay and also mentioned that his team members never had any issues knowing his sexual preferences as well. ALSO READ | Pride Month: LGBTQ couples in sports who inspire us to come out of the closet "All the stars aligned to move," he said. "Everyone in Auckland knew I was gay; in the team it didn't seem to be that big an issue. Maybe some of the young ones if you're sharing a room with them or something, but just petty s**t. Things I thought might have been issues weren't really. I just felt free," he signed off. While there are not many such revelations in the game of cricket, Davis' recent declaration has inspired many like him to also break the shackles and proudly open up in this regard.

'Was going to seedy places to get sex': Former NZ cricketer narrates his story after coming out as gay

Calling the decision “clearly wrong”, controversial US Senator Ted Cruz has discussed the possibility of reversing gay marriage legalisation.

During his show 'Verdict With Ted Cruz', he said that “Marriage was always an issue that was left to the states.”

“You’ve got a ton of people who have entered into gay marriages and it would be more than a little chaotic for the court to do something that somehow disrupted those marriages,” he said.

Talking about the US Supreme Court's decision to ban abortion in the country, he said ''Obergefell, like Roe v. Wade, ignored two centuries of our nation’s history.''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-abortion-ban-in-us-is-more-challenging-for-servicewomen-492093">Also read |&nbsp;Why is abortion ban in US more challenging for servicewomen?</a>

Highlighting that before the SCOTUS decision, “some states were moving to allow gay marriage, other states were moving to allow civil partnerships,” Cruz added “They were different standards that the states were adopting.”

Calling for the court to re-examine and potentially overturn rulings that protect gay marriage and access to birth control, Justice Clarence Thomas had said that “In future cases, we should reconsider all of this Court’s substantive due process precedents, including Griswold, Lawrence and Obergefell.”

“We emphasise that our decision concerns the constitutional right to abortion and no other right,” Justice Samuel Alito.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Calling the decision “clearly wrong”, controversial US Senator Ted Cruz has discussed the possibility of reversing gay marriage legalisation. During his show 'Verdict With Ted Cruz', he said that “Marriage was always an issue that was left to the states.

Calling the decision “clearly wrong”, controversial US Senator Ted Cruz has discussed the possibility of reversing gay marriage legalisation. During his show 'Verdict With Ted Cruz', he said that “Marriage was always an issue that was left to the states.” “You’ve got a ton of people who have entered into gay marriages and it would be more than a little chaotic for the court to do something that somehow disrupted those marriages,” he said. Talking about the US Supreme Court's decision to ban abortion in the country, he said ''Obergefell, like Roe v. Wade, ignored two centuries of our nation’s history.'' Also read | Why is abortion ban in US more challenging for servicewomen? Highlighting that before the SCOTUS decision, “some states were moving to allow gay marriage, other states were moving to allow civil partnerships,” Cruz added “They were different standards that the states were adopting.” Calling for the court to re-examine and potentially overturn rulings that protect gay marriage and access to birth control, Justice Clarence Thomas had said that “In future cases, we should reconsider all of this Court’s substantive due process precedents, including Griswold, Lawrence and Obergefell.” “We emphasise that our decision concerns the constitutional right to abortion and no other right,” Justice Samuel Alito. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

High court gay marriage legalisation was clearly wrong, says controversial US Senator Ted Cruz

London marks 50 years of Pride - see pics

For years, Indian cinema avoided the subject of homosexuality and the transgenders in films. For the most part, it has been shown under the garb of comic relief. It's 2022 and the Indian film industry has still not given credence to homosexuality in its depiction, especially in the commercial space.

The month of June is celebrated as Pride Month with great pomp and dignity across the globe. This is when members of the LGBTQ community and their allies come together and organise events to spread awareness about the idea of equal rights and opportunities for their community.

Over the years, representation of sexual minorities in Indian cinema has remained careless and underplayed, with the third-gender portrayal being violently exaggerated in appearances, such as child traffickers, brothel owners, or pimps.
<img alt="Vijay Sethupathi in a still from 'Super Deluxe' " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="51eecef9-d1aa-448d-ba35-867f2796858f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/super%20deluxe.jpg" />
However, Shilpa, played by Vijay Sethupati in the 2019 Tamil anthology 'Super Deluxe’, showed the vulnerable side of the trans communities. The film perhaps is one of the most sincere representations that the audience has witness in present times. In the film, Shilpa faces societal rejection and harassment from the police when she goes to file a missing report for her son Rasakutty. Shilpa's helplessness combined with her son and wife's slow acceptance makes it a thought-provoking watch, ultimately making the audience sympathise with the character.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/journey-of-lesbian-magazine-curve-hits-screens-this-pride-month-389502">Journey of lesbian magazine 'Curve' hits screens this Pride month</a>

Much like trans characters, gays and lesbians too didn't have much chance of being accurately represented in cinema as India's societal scenario was not favourable towards homosexuals for a very long time. Though there were a few filmmakers who dared to showcase concepts encircling same-sex relationships, it was not until 1996, when filmmaker Deepa Mehta made 'Fire', a story of a same-sex relationship between two women of the same household. The film received bitter and aggressive protests across the country, ultimately getting banned.

It took several years for films like 'My Brother Nikhil' (2005), followed by 'Margarita with a Straw' and 'Aligarh' in 2015, 'Dear Dad', 'Kapoor &amp; Sons' and 'Loev', all in 2016, to come out. The films received positive reviews from critics for their treatment of the subject and the sensitivity with which the characters were written.

In 2018, the Supreme Court of India passed a landmark judgement, striking down the draconian section 377 that decriminalised homosexuality. This judgement was welcomed by a wide section of society and people were able to talk openly about their sexual orientation without fear of discrimination. But this change was limited to urban society, and nothing much changed for sexual minorities in the interiors.
<img alt="Still from the films 'Bhadaai Do' and 'Shubha Mangala Jyada Savdhan'" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c231d812-ab91-4b40-a278-35ef31801c00" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/shubha%20mangal%20bhadai%20do.jpg" />
The community though still faces discrimination, violence, hostility, bullying and harassment, even from their family. 'Shub Mangala Jayda Savdhan' and 'Baadhai Do' are good examples where the protagonist feels insecure and is hesitant to express their sexual orientation.

Unlike the other forms of art, cinema has the power to become a catalyst for creating and stirring social change. Juhi Chawla's character in the film 'My Brother Nikhil', who plays the role of an elder sister to Sanjay Suri, understands that being gay is not a disease and supports him during his hard times. This film conveys the message that no matter one's sexual orientation, being acceptive and supportive of that fact can improve the quality of their life.
<img alt="Actors Juhi Chawla and Sanjay Suri in a still from the film 'My Brother Nikhil'" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6ff92344-a847-4dc9-a211-959034acf6f7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/my%20brother%20nkhil.jpg" />
Cinema, as we say, is a mirror of the society and is definitely the most appropriate platform to bring social inclusion and acceptance to the LGBTQ population- with more and more films embracing homosexual characters. But the picturization has to be done with care, sensitivity, compassion and understanding towards the community.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-best-makeup-looks-of-pride-month-2022-487693">Best makeup looks of Pride Month 2022</a>

Having a gay or bisexual character in a movie to illicit comedy or meaningless fun has to stop and in its place, a depiction of their normal life with abnormal challenges must be portrayed. Ayushman Khurana and Vani Kapoor starrer film 'Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui' though had scenes and offensive dialogues relating to trans people, the scene between Vani and her father has been beautifully and empathically produced, where sex change is not denounced but wholeheartedly accepted.
<img alt="A still from the film Kapoor &amp; Sons " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab25c20d-e44c-4d39-82a1-190b579ade37" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/kapoor%20n%20sons.jpg" />
Cinema and the media play a significant role in shaping stereotypes. A well-made, realistic and unquestionable film around a queer theme can in turn make people reflect on their thoughts about the community. This is best depicted in 'Kapoor &amp; Sons', where Fawad Khan's mother disowns him but gradually realises his feelings and accepts his sexual identity.

In today's age, the depiction of heterosexual emotions and sexuality is largely welcomed by the audience. Therefore, the emotional complexities of other genders, their life struggles, and challenges should also be presented in a similar manner that evokes empathy and consciousness amongst people.

'Angry Indian Goddesses', 'Cobalt Blue', short story 'Geeli Pucchi' from 'Ajeeb Daastaans' and 'Baai' from the anthology 'Modern Love Mumbai' sublimely show the developing homosexual desires. The premise of 'Angry Indian Goddesses' and 'Baai' deals with the marriage of a same-sex couple with the support of family and friends.
<img alt="Geeli Puchi from Ajeeb Dasthaaan " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cb6837f8-1387-4798-bd55-6a5c69c07e3a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/geeli%20puchi.jpg" />
Similarly, in 'Ajeeb Dasstaan's' short story 'Geeli Pucchi', the two female protagonists develop a bond where one is hesitant to accept, while the other feels acknowledging is the only way to address the inner conflict.

In the last few decades, Indian cinema has been able to present sexual minorities effectively on the silver screen but sparsely.

The need of the hour is for more sensibly made queer-themed films with subtle and sensitive characterisation. This could help in truly bringing out the change in society towards this vibrant and amazing community.

Also Read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pride-month-superman-to-captain-america-dc-marvel-their-lgbtq-superheroes-485570">Pride month! Superman to Captain America: DC, Marvel &amp; their LGBTQ superheroes</a>

For years, Indian cinema avoided the subject of homosexuality and the transgenders in films. For the most part, it has been shown under the garb of comic relief.

For years, Indian cinema avoided the subject of homosexuality and the transgenders in films. For the most part, it has been shown under the garb of comic relief. It's 2022 and the Indian film industry has still not given credence to homosexuality in its depiction, especially in the commercial space. The month of June is celebrated as Pride Month with great pomp and dignity across the globe. This is when members of the LGBTQ community and their allies come together and organise events to spread awareness about the idea of equal rights and opportunities for their community. Over the years, representation of sexual minorities in Indian cinema has remained careless and underplayed, with the third-gender portrayal being violently exaggerated in appearances, such as child traffickers, brothel owners, or pimps. However, Shilpa, played by Vijay Sethupati in the 2019 Tamil anthology 'Super Deluxe’, showed the vulnerable side of the trans communities. The film perhaps is one of the most sincere representations that the audience has witness in present times. In the film, Shilpa faces societal rejection and harassment from the police when she goes to file a missing report for her son Rasakutty. Shilpa's helplessness combined with her son and wife's slow acceptance makes it a thought-provoking watch, ultimately making the audience sympathise with the character. Also Read: Journey of lesbian magazine 'Curve' hits screens this Pride month Much like trans characters, gays and lesbians too didn't have much chance of being accurately represented in cinema as India's societal scenario was not favourable towards homosexuals for a very long time. Though there were a few filmmakers who dared to showcase concepts encircling same-sex relationships, it was not until 1996, when filmmaker Deepa Mehta made 'Fire', a story of a same-sex relationship between two women of the same household. The film received bitter and aggressive protests across the country, ultimately getting banned. It took several years for films like 'My Brother Nikhil' (2005), followed by 'Margarita with a Straw' and 'Aligarh' in 2015, 'Dear Dad', 'Kapoor & Sons' and 'Loev', all in 2016, to come out. The films received positive reviews from critics for their treatment of the subject and the sensitivity with which the characters were written. In 2018, the Supreme Court of India passed a landmark judgement, striking down the draconian section 377 that decriminalised homosexuality. This judgement was welcomed by a wide section of society and people were able to talk openly about their sexual orientation without fear of discrimination. But this change was limited to urban society, and nothing much changed for sexual minorities in the interiors. The community though still faces discrimination, violence, hostility, bullying and harassment, even from their family. 'Shub Mangala Jayda Savdhan' and 'Baadhai Do' are good examples where the protagonist feels insecure and is hesitant to express their sexual orientation. Unlike the other forms of art, cinema has the power to become a catalyst for creating and stirring social change. Juhi Chawla's character in the film 'My Brother Nikhil', who plays the role of an elder sister to Sanjay Suri, understands that being gay is not a disease and supports him during his hard times. This film conveys the message that no matter one's sexual orientation, being acceptive and supportive of that fact can improve the quality of their life. Cinema, as we say, is a mirror of the society and is definitely the most appropriate platform to bring social inclusion and acceptance to the LGBTQ population- with more and more films embracing homosexual characters. But the picturization has to be done with care, sensitivity, compassion and understanding towards the community. Also Read: Best makeup looks of Pride Month 2022 Having a gay or bisexual character in a movie to illicit comedy or meaningless fun has to stop and in its place, a depiction of their normal life with abnormal challenges must be portrayed. Ayushman Khurana and Vani Kapoor starrer film 'Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui' though had scenes and offensive dialogues relating to trans people, the scene between Vani and her father has been beautifully and empathically produced, where sex change is not denounced but wholeheartedly accepted. Cinema and the media play a significant role in shaping stereotypes. A well-made, realistic and unquestionable film around a queer theme can in turn make people reflect on their thoughts about the community. This is best depicted in 'Kapoor & Sons', where Fawad Khan's mother disowns him but gradually realises his feelings and accepts his sexual identity. In today's age, the depiction of heterosexual emotions and sexuality is largely welcomed by the audience. Therefore, the emotional complexities of other genders, their life struggles, and challenges should also be presented in a similar manner that evokes empathy and consciousness amongst people. 'Angry Indian Goddesses', 'Cobalt Blue', short story 'Geeli Pucchi' from 'Ajeeb Daastaans' and 'Baai' from the anthology 'Modern Love Mumbai' sublimely show the developing homosexual desires. The premise of 'Angry Indian Goddesses' and 'Baai' deals with the marriage of a same-sex couple with the support of family and friends. Similarly, in 'Ajeeb Dasstaan's' short story 'Geeli Pucchi', the two female protagonists develop a bond where one is hesitant to accept, while the other feels acknowledging is the only way to address the inner conflict. In the last few decades, Indian cinema has been able to present sexual minorities effectively on the silver screen but sparsely. The need of the hour is for more sensibly made queer-themed films with subtle and sensitive characterisation. This could help in truly bringing out the change in society towards this vibrant and amazing community. Also Read Pride month! Superman to Captain America: DC, Marvel & their LGBTQ superheroes

Pride Month: Power of cinema and the positive change it can wield on LGBTQ community

Pride Month: LGBTQ couples in sports who inspire us to come out of the closet

Ariana Grande to Chris Evans: Stars who proudly show support & love to their LGBTQ+ family 

In pics: Bangkok celebrates its first pride parade in nearly 16 years

June 1 marked the beginning of Pride month, when parades pop up in cities around the world and rainbows start appearing in ads for liquor, banks, makeup and big-box department stores.

These events and campaigns are visible shows of support for the LGBTQ community. They’re also good for business. Sometimes lumped under the label of “rainbow capitalism,” pride ads and merchandise are often the subject of jokes and memes that question the sincerity of corporate marketing and the influencers who help boost such messages. This year, the online ribbing started right away.

Katie Johantgen riffed on a common joke format just after midnight Wednesday: an emotional coming-out message, ending with the reveal of a brand partnership: “I’ve realized life is short,” she wrote on Twitter, “which is why this pride I’ve decided to partner with Taco Bell, so I can Live Mas.”

Although the tweet was meant as a parody, modeled after language influencers use to promote Pride campaigns, Johantgen’s coming out was sincere. She received an outpouring of support alongside winking nods of approval. One Twitter user responded with an image of the Taco Bell logo displayed against a rainbow background, with the text: “LIVE YÁÁÁS.”

Some of the “I’m partnering with” memes are silly or bawdy, like a tweet that makes a pun about oral sex and DoorDash food delivery. Others lampoon the dissonance between the positive rainbow ads and the less-sunny realities of corporations. Hudson Farr, 24, tweeted about an imagined partnership with one of the world’s largest weapons manufacturers, writing: “As a queer child, I learned firsthand that sometimes words can be the most hurtful weapons. That’s why this pride month I’ve partnered with raytheon.” Still others tend toward gallows humor, such as a tweet about “partnering with IKEA to build my dream closet.”

Notably, each of the corporations mentioned has its own 2022 Pride campaign underway. “LIVE YÁÁÁS” is fictitious, but Taco Bell does have an LGBTQ-focused employee resource group called “Live Más Pride” and is sponsoring a 10-show drag tour hosted at five of its Taco Bell locations.

DoorDash is hosting several events for employees this month that include drag bingo, Pride trivia and a donation and letter-writing campaign in support of trans people via the organization Point of Pride. Raytheon Technologies released a statement Wednesday outlining its commitment to its LGBTQ workers and noting that the company “is regularly recognized by the Human Rights Campaign as one of the best places for LGBTQIA+ employees to work.”

Throughout June, Ikea is donating proceeds from sales of its rainbow shopping bags to the Trevor Project, a suicide prevention organization that focuses on the LGBTQ community. Ikea is also encouraging customers to take selfies with the company’s “HOME PRIDE HOME” cross-stitch design. A PDF of the image is available for download on Ikea’s website.

These corporate initiatives are familiar enough that they’ve become common fodder for satire. In 2021, comedian Meg Stalter uploaded a video of herself playing a representative of a butter shop making a clumsy attempt to court gay customers. Her opening line — “Hi, gay!” — became internet shorthand for corporate pandering. T-shirts bearing the slogan are available in her online shop.

Addie Shrodes, who recently completed a doctorate in education from Northwestern University, has researched online humor in LGBTQ communities. “Usually there is a Pride joke that happens around the month of June,” Shrodes said. “And this year, I’ve been noticing this anti-capitalist, anti-corporate joke around influencer commodification in Pride spaces.

“Especially within queer and queer of color activism, there’s a really long history of using humor to survive and resist interlocking structures of oppression,” Shrodes said, citing the work of activist group ACT UP and Jose Muñoz, a queer theorist who wrote, “Comedy does not exist independently of rage.”

Shrodes said that humor has been used for decades within queer and trans activist movements as a way to question dominant norms. “In the social media world that we live in, influencer culture gets normalized. Being a paid ambassador, being a paid content creator, that gets normalized,” Shrodes said, adding that memes could be “a way to use humor to create some distance from those trends and say, ‘Oh, this is actually kind of weird. Maybe we don’t want this.’”

Or maybe people do? Sometimes it’s not so clear.

“I like that format because I hate capitalism,” said Johantgen, 30. Not that she’s above trying to parlay her tweet’s virality into some corporate swag. In a reply to her own tweet, she urged Taco Bell to donate to groups that support the LGBTQ community and also suggested that the company send freebies her way.

“It’s about my journey as a queer person and getting free Baja Blasts for life,” Johantgen said. She was joking. Mostly.

June 1 marked the beginning of Pride month, when parades pop up in cities around the world and rainbows start appearing in ads for liquor, banks, makeup and big-box department stores.

June 1 marked the beginning of Pride month, when parades pop up in cities around the world and rainbows start appearing in ads for liquor, banks, makeup and big-box department stores. These events and campaigns are visible shows of support for the LGBTQ community. They’re also good for business. Sometimes lumped under the label of “rainbow capitalism,” pride ads and merchandise are often the subject of jokes and memes that question the sincerity of corporate marketing and the influencers who help boost such messages. This year, the online ribbing started right away. Katie Johantgen riffed on a common joke format just after midnight Wednesday: an emotional coming-out message, ending with the reveal of a brand partnership: “I’ve realized life is short,” she wrote on Twitter, “which is why this pride I’ve decided to partner with Taco Bell, so I can Live Mas.” Although the tweet was meant as a parody, modeled after language influencers use to promote Pride campaigns, Johantgen’s coming out was sincere. She received an outpouring of support alongside winking nods of approval. One Twitter user responded with an image of the Taco Bell logo displayed against a rainbow background, with the text: “LIVE YÁÁÁS.” Some of the “I’m partnering with” memes are silly or bawdy, like a tweet that makes a pun about oral sex and DoorDash food delivery. Others lampoon the dissonance between the positive rainbow ads and the less-sunny realities of corporations. Hudson Farr, 24, tweeted about an imagined partnership with one of the world’s largest weapons manufacturers, writing: “As a queer child, I learned firsthand that sometimes words can be the most hurtful weapons. That’s why this pride month I’ve partnered with raytheon.” Still others tend toward gallows humor, such as a tweet about “partnering with IKEA to build my dream closet.” Notably, each of the corporations mentioned has its own 2022 Pride campaign underway. “LIVE YÁÁÁS” is fictitious, but Taco Bell does have an LGBTQ-focused employee resource group called “Live Más Pride” and is sponsoring a 10-show drag tour hosted at five of its Taco Bell locations. DoorDash is hosting several events for employees this month that include drag bingo, Pride trivia and a donation and letter-writing campaign in support of trans people via the organization Point of Pride. Raytheon Technologies released a statement Wednesday outlining its commitment to its LGBTQ workers and noting that the company “is regularly recognized by the Human Rights Campaign as one of the best places for LGBTQIA+ employees to work.” Throughout June, Ikea is donating proceeds from sales of its rainbow shopping bags to the Trevor Project, a suicide prevention organization that focuses on the LGBTQ community. Ikea is also encouraging customers to take selfies with the company’s “HOME PRIDE HOME” cross-stitch design. A PDF of the image is available for download on Ikea’s website. These corporate initiatives are familiar enough that they’ve become common fodder for satire. In 2021, comedian Meg Stalter uploaded a video of herself playing a representative of a butter shop making a clumsy attempt to court gay customers. Her opening line — “Hi, gay!” — became internet shorthand for corporate pandering. T-shirts bearing the slogan are available in her online shop. Addie Shrodes, who recently completed a doctorate in education from Northwestern University, has researched online humor in LGBTQ communities. “Usually there is a Pride joke that happens around the month of June,” Shrodes said. “And this year, I’ve been noticing this anti-capitalist, anti-corporate joke around influencer commodification in Pride spaces. “Especially within queer and queer of color activism, there’s a really long history of using humor to survive and resist interlocking structures of oppression,” Shrodes said, citing the work of activist group ACT UP and Jose Muñoz, a queer theorist who wrote, “Comedy does not exist independently of rage.” Shrodes said that humor has been used for decades within queer and trans activist movements as a way to question dominant norms. “In the social media world that we live in, influencer culture gets normalized. Being a paid ambassador, being a paid content creator, that gets normalized,” Shrodes said, adding that memes could be “a way to use humor to create some distance from those trends and say, ‘Oh, this is actually kind of weird. Maybe we don’t want this.’” Or maybe people do? Sometimes it’s not so clear. “I like that format because I hate capitalism,” said Johantgen, 30. Not that she’s above trying to parlay her tweet’s virality into some corporate swag. In a reply to her own tweet, she urged Taco Bell to donate to groups that support the LGBTQ community and also suggested that the company send freebies her way. “It’s about my journey as a queer person and getting free Baja Blasts for life,” Johantgen said. She was joking. Mostly.

‘This pride month I’m partnering with’ memes are coming out strong

In the lives of queer individuals, accepting their sexuality in front of their families and loved ones is one of the most emotional and difficult tasks. Out of the fear of being misunderstood, hated, or disowned, many choose to live a lie. Now, a Chinese firm has launched a kit, that helps people who identify with the LGBTQ community 'come out' to their families.

Chinese company's 'coming-out kit' to help LGBTQ community

For Queer individuals, coming out to their families and loved ones is perhaps one of the most daunting tasks.

They find themselves plagued with questions like 'will they accept me and my sexuality?'...'How do i start the conversation?'.

For young people in China, the conversation is perhaps even more difficult. The topic of "sex," both heterosexual and otherwise, remains a taboo in this deeply traditional country, and coming out of the closet isn't easy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-uk-opens-its-first-lgbtq-museum-in-london-477285">In pics: UK's first LGBTQ+ museum opens in London</a>

But now, a Chinese company called Trueself is trying to make the journey towards accepting oneself easier.&nbsp;

The organisation has launched a kit called 'A Journey to Trueself'.&nbsp;

It includes step-by-step instructions on how to talk about their sexuality with people.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Can Santa Claus be gay?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-can-santa-claus-be-gay-439759/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Available at a cost of $15, it comes with a deck of 50 cards that can help initiate and make uncomfortable conversations easier. On these cards are 50 questions that parents frequently ask, and testimony from other queer people who have opened up to their family and friends.

<img alt="A Journey to True Self" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="677d86c8-933e-42be-bdbc-ec54c85166a7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_173.jpg" />

The Trueself kit won't be a one-size-fits-all package says Hu Zhijun, its creator. Instead, the kit will be a "gift to discover one's true self", he told Sixth Tone.

Hu, who before the pandemic used to organise meetups for the LGBTQ+ community got the idea to create this kit, following a lot of conversations that went like "how do I start the the conversation with my mom/dad/parents?".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lgbtq-students-targeted-face-crackdown-in-china-416777">LGBTQ students targeted, face crackdown in China</a>

While this is definitely a positive step in initiating the much-needed conversations and spreading self-acceptance, in a country where the minimum hourly wage is $3.90, the $15 kit isn't exactly accessible for all.

What do you think: is it merely rainbow capitalism, that is, commercialisation, banking of the LGBTQ movement or is it a positive change?

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

For Queer individuals, coming out to their families and loved ones is perhaps one of the most daunting tasks. They find themselves plagued with questions like 'will they accept me and my sexuality?

For Queer individuals, coming out to their families and loved ones is perhaps one of the most daunting tasks. They find themselves plagued with questions like 'will they accept me and my sexuality?'...'How do i start the conversation?'. For young people in China, the conversation is perhaps even more difficult. The topic of "sex," both heterosexual and otherwise, remains a taboo in this deeply traditional country, and coming out of the closet isn't easy. Also read | In pics: UK's first LGBTQ+ museum opens in London But now, a Chinese company called Trueself is trying to make the journey towards accepting oneself easier. The organisation has launched a kit called 'A Journey to Trueself'. It includes step-by-step instructions on how to talk about their sexuality with people. Watch | Gravitas: Can Santa Claus be gay? Available at a cost of $15, it comes with a deck of 50 cards that can help initiate and make uncomfortable conversations easier. On these cards are 50 questions that parents frequently ask, and testimony from other queer people who have opened up to their family and friends. The Trueself kit won't be a one-size-fits-all package says Hu Zhijun, its creator. Instead, the kit will be a "gift to discover one's true self", he told Sixth Tone. Hu, who before the pandemic used to organise meetups for the LGBTQ+ community got the idea to create this kit, following a lot of conversations that went like "how do I start the the conversation with my mom/dad/parents?". Also read | LGBTQ students targeted, face crackdown in China While this is definitely a positive step in initiating the much-needed conversations and spreading self-acceptance, in a country where the minimum hourly wage is $3.90, the $15 kit isn't exactly accessible for all. What do you think: is it merely rainbow capitalism, that is, commercialisation, banking of the LGBTQ movement or is it a positive change? Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Born this way': Chinese company launches 'coming out' kit for queer people

UK has unveiled a rainbow-coloured 50p coin to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Pride UK movement. The coin is designed by LGBTQ+ activist & artist Dominique Holmes.

UK unveils Pride coin to mark 50th anniversary

In pics: UK's first LGBTQ+ museum opens in London

The multi-talented Rajkummar &nbsp;Rao who plays a gay man married to a lesbian in his new film 'Badhaai Do' tells Subhash K Jha why the film is important to him and to the audience, and about being married.

Raj, how has life changed after marriage to Patralekha? 
 
Nothing much has changed. But yeah, I feel complete and there is a very slight shift on a subconscious level. The love between us is growing every day. It’s such a joy to get married to the person you love and who is also your best friend. We just need everyone’s blessings.

How sensitive is the film 'Badhaai Do' to the LGBTQ community?

&nbsp;I can say with confidence that our film is very well-researched and made by some very sensitive people. Harshvardhan Kulkarni, our director has made sure that he involves people from the LGBTQ community at every step so that we don't hurt somebody’s sentiments.

But why are there so few sensitive films made in India on the LGBTQ community?

I can’t talk about other people’s work but I’ve been a part of some beautiful films on the LGBTQ community like 'Aligarh' and 'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga', and 'Badhaai Do' is in that space only just that it’s slightly more entertaining but the message is going to be the same. You will have to wait and watch the film.

In the film, you play a gay man married to a lesbian. What is your personal opinion on such beard marriages?

Playing a queer character is a huge responsibility. For that matter, as an actor, I do my best to ensure that any character I portray on the screen does not propagate further stereotypes in society. Being in a marriage of convenience is a very real and serious issue, people who choose to be in these relationships would have sectarian families or would have to deal with immense bigotry in the societies they live in. The decision, assuming that they even have a choice, and this is also a big leap in some societies, to be in a marriage-like this would be massively driven by the fear of being seriously harmed physically or emotionally. Any life decision, let alone a big one like marriage, that is driven by such fear and pressure can never be good.

How has 'Badhaai Do' changed you as a human being. Do you now understand the queer community better?

Doing this film has made me realise that a simple act of loving who I want and marrying the person I want is unfortunately a privilege when it should actually be a right. As a CIS heterosexual male, in all honestly, I can't say I completely understand what they must be going through, I do acknowledge the privileges I have and anything I say I know I will be coming from that place of privilege and will always have an outsiders view to a very important issue that the LGBTQ community has to face. All I can say is that we have done our best to bring this very serious issue to the masses in the most palatable manner without being disrespectful.

'Badhaai Do' is your third release during the pandemic. How have you managed to remain so busy at times when civilization in recession?

I was just fortunate that the government allowed shoots and were shooting with full precautions and in a controlled bubble that environment. We have to keep working and keep living our lives in this new normal.

How had the pandemic changed your life?

Fortunately, most of us are vaccinated now. Of course, just like many people out there, I am equally scared and anxious about the Pandemic and it is absolutely normal to feel this way. We must take the pandemic seriously and take all the precautions. However, life has to go on, just as all other industries have learnt to adapt in the pandemic times, as must the entertainment industry. The Government has taken all the necessary steps and people incharge in theatres are making sure that they go the extra mile to make all the necessary precautions for everyone’s safety. It's important to remember that even though everything is so uncertain, we must keep living every day to the fullest and be kind to others. Hopefully, Badhaai Do will bring joy to the audience.

How has the pandemic changed your life?

Everything is so uncertain and keep living every day to the fullest and be kind to others. I’ve seen death so closely in this pandemic especially in the second wave all of us have lost someone or the other either in our family, closed circle or in our social circle. All of us were trying to help as many people as we could.

What is your takeaway from the pandemic?

Leave beautiful memories for others to remember you with once you’re gone.

Is the&nbsp;OTT the only way forward for cinema now?

I believe both the OTT and movie-theatre industries will coexist and that’s great for artists and technicians as it will generate much more employment and will serve great content to the audience.

Where do you see yourself a year from now? What are your forthcoming films?

I see myself here only and hopefully will be a part of some wonderful stories and hopefully, this pandemic won’t be there. I have finished 'Monica O My Darling', 'BHEED', 'HIT', and &nbsp;Raj-DK’s next web series.

The multi-talented Rajkummar Rao who plays a gay man married to a lesbian in his new film 'Badhaai Do' tells Subhash K Jha why the film is important to him and to the audience, and about being married.

The multi-talented Rajkummar Rao who plays a gay man married to a lesbian in his new film 'Badhaai Do' tells Subhash K Jha why the film is important to him and to the audience, and about being married. Raj, how has life changed after marriage to Patralekha? Nothing much has changed. But yeah, I feel complete and there is a very slight shift on a subconscious level. The love between us is growing every day. It’s such a joy to get married to the person you love and who is also your best friend. We just need everyone’s blessings. How sensitive is the film 'Badhaai Do' to the LGBTQ community? I can say with confidence that our film is very well-researched and made by some very sensitive people. Harshvardhan Kulkarni, our director has made sure that he involves people from the LGBTQ community at every step so that we don't hurt somebody’s sentiments. But why are there so few sensitive films made in India on the LGBTQ community? I can’t talk about other people’s work but I’ve been a part of some beautiful films on the LGBTQ community like 'Aligarh' and 'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga', and 'Badhaai Do' is in that space only just that it’s slightly more entertaining but the message is going to be the same. You will have to wait and watch the film. In the film, you play a gay man married to a lesbian. What is your personal opinion on such beard marriages? Playing a queer character is a huge responsibility. For that matter, as an actor, I do my best to ensure that any character I portray on the screen does not propagate further stereotypes in society. Being in a marriage of convenience is a very real and serious issue, people who choose to be in these relationships would have sectarian families or would have to deal with immense bigotry in the societies they live in. The decision, assuming that they even have a choice, and this is also a big leap in some societies, to be in a marriage-like this would be massively driven by the fear of being seriously harmed physically or emotionally. Any life decision, let alone a big one like marriage, that is driven by such fear and pressure can never be good. How has 'Badhaai Do' changed you as a human being. Do you now understand the queer community better? Doing this film has made me realise that a simple act of loving who I want and marrying the person I want is unfortunately a privilege when it should actually be a right. As a CIS heterosexual male, in all honestly, I can't say I completely understand what they must be going through, I do acknowledge the privileges I have and anything I say I know I will be coming from that place of privilege and will always have an outsiders view to a very important issue that the LGBTQ community has to face. All I can say is that we have done our best to bring this very serious issue to the masses in the most palatable manner without being disrespectful. 'Badhaai Do' is your third release during the pandemic. How have you managed to remain so busy at times when civilization in recession? I was just fortunate that the government allowed shoots and were shooting with full precautions and in a controlled bubble that environment. We have to keep working and keep living our lives in this new normal. How had the pandemic changed your life? Fortunately, most of us are vaccinated now. Of course, just like many people out there, I am equally scared and anxious about the Pandemic and it is absolutely normal to feel this way. We must take the pandemic seriously and take all the precautions. However, life has to go on, just as all other industries have learnt to adapt in the pandemic times, as must the entertainment industry. The Government has taken all the necessary steps and people incharge in theatres are making sure that they go the extra mile to make all the necessary precautions for everyone’s safety. It's important to remember that even though everything is so uncertain, we must keep living every day to the fullest and be kind to others. Hopefully, Badhaai Do will bring joy to the audience. How has the pandemic changed your life? Everything is so uncertain and keep living every day to the fullest and be kind to others. I’ve seen death so closely in this pandemic especially in the second wave all of us have lost someone or the other either in our family, closed circle or in our social circle. All of us were trying to help as many people as we could. What is your takeaway from the pandemic? Leave beautiful memories for others to remember you with once you’re gone. Is the OTT the only way forward for cinema now? I believe both the OTT and movie-theatre industries will coexist and that’s great for artists and technicians as it will generate much more employment and will serve great content to the audience. Where do you see yourself a year from now? What are your forthcoming films? I see myself here only and hopefully will be a part of some wonderful stories and hopefully, this pandemic won’t be there. I have finished 'Monica O My Darling', 'BHEED', 'HIT', and Raj-DK’s next web series.

Rajkummar Rao on his new film 'Badhaai Do': Playing a queer character is a huge responsibility

In pics: Chile joins the list of countries where same-sex marriage is officially legal

In this 21st century where people are coming together to celebrate freedom to choose gender, Russian President Vladimir Putin said teaching gender fluidity to children is 'monstrous' and 'terrible'.<o:p></o:p>

"It is terrible when children in the West are taught the idea that a boy can become a girl," Putin said.<o:p></o:p>

Speaking from his pre-prepared notes at an even of Valdai International Discussion Club in Sochi, Russia, Putin said he believes that it is close to ‘crimes against humanity’ that children are allowed to believe that they can choose their own gender.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-has-to-be-altered-china-set-to-ban-video-games-that-show-gay-relationship-unmanly-characters-417571">'This has to be altered': China set to ban video games that show 'gay relationship', 'unmanly characters'</a></o:p>

The President blamed people for pushing small children to believe that a boy can become a girl, and vice versa. "(It is a) simply monstrous moment when children are pushed to believe from early on that a boy can easily become a girl, and vice versa,"&nbsp;he said. "They are pushed to believe they have a choice, imposed while parents are swept aside. And a child is forced to make a decision that can break their life."<o:p></o:p>

He accused people of teaching this to gender without consulting child psychologists and without making sure whether or not a child can handle to make such decisions.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/diversity-spaces-germany-reserves-parking-spots-for-lgbt-community-and-migrants-417550">'Diversity spaces': Germany reserves parking spots for LGBT community and migrants</a></o:p>

"No-one even consults child psychologists on whether a child of a certain age is able to make these kind of decisions,"&nbsp;Putin accused. "Calling a spade a spade, this is close to a crime against humanity dressed up in the name and under the flag of progress."<o:p></o:p>

Putin claims that he is not prejudiced against the LGBTQ community but also believes that such important decisions related to gender identity can only be taken by adults and, therefore, children should not be taught these concepts. <o:p></o:p>

However, people have lashed out at Putin for his comments, especially considering that in 2020 same-sex marriages were prohibited and trans people were told they cannot adopt children.<o:p></o:p>

In this 21st century where people are coming together to celebrate freedom to choose gender, Russian President Vladimir Putin said teaching gender fluidity to children is 'monstrous' and 'terrible'.

In this 21st century where people are coming together to celebrate freedom to choose gender, Russian President Vladimir Putin said teaching gender fluidity to children is 'monstrous' and 'terrible'. "It is terrible when children in the West are taught the idea that a boy can become a girl," Putin said. Speaking from his pre-prepared notes at an even of Valdai International Discussion Club in Sochi, Russia, Putin said he believes that it is close to ‘crimes against humanity’ that children are allowed to believe that they can choose their own gender. Also read | 'This has to be altered': China set to ban video games that show 'gay relationship', 'unmanly characters' The President blamed people for pushing small children to believe that a boy can become a girl, and vice versa. "(It is a) simply monstrous moment when children are pushed to believe from early on that a boy can easily become a girl, and vice versa," he said. "They are pushed to believe they have a choice, imposed while parents are swept aside. And a child is forced to make a decision that can break their life." He accused people of teaching this to gender without consulting child psychologists and without making sure whether or not a child can handle to make such decisions. Also read | 'Diversity spaces': Germany reserves parking spots for LGBT community and migrants "No-one even consults child psychologists on whether a child of a certain age is able to make these kind of decisions," Putin accused. "Calling a spade a spade, this is close to a crime against humanity dressed up in the name and under the flag of progress." Putin claims that he is not prejudiced against the LGBTQ community but also believes that such important decisions related to gender identity can only be taken by adults and, therefore, children should not be taught these concepts. However, people have lashed out at Putin for his comments, especially considering that in 2020 same-sex marriages were prohibited and trans people were told they cannot adopt children.

'Close to crime against humanity': Teaching children about gender identity is 'monstrous', says Putin

A car park in Germany decided to show its support to the LGBTQ community and migrants by painting a rainbow flag on one of its walls and reserving specific parking spots.<o:p></o:p>

The authorities claim that they reserved parking spots specially for the LGBT drivers and migrants as they have a "special need for protection and security in public spaces," a local councillor explained.

<o:p></o:p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
NEW - A car park located in Germany has unveiled dedicated parking spaces reserved for LGBTQ and migrant drivers. 
 
The aim is to help people who feel "a special need for protection". <a href="https://t.co/FeGDl6NPma">pic.twitter.com/FeGDl6NPma</a>
— BristolBlues 🇬🇧🇬🇧 (@BristolBlues40) <a href="https://twitter.com/BristolBlues40/status/1443904008662441986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

This decision was taken for Hanauer Parkhaus in Hanau of Germany. Three parking spots have been reserved for LGBT and migrant drivers.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-locals-send-record-100000-submissions-to-ban-lgbt-conversion-practices-413343">New Zealand locals send record 100,000 submissions to ban LGBT conversion practices</a></o:p>

The selected parking spots are next to each other and are closer to the exit of the multi-storey parking lot. With a rainbow (also known as 'pride flag') painted on the back wall, these spaces are also specifically monitored by security cameras.

<o:p></o:p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hanau, Germany will be introducing reserved “diversity” parking spaces for LGBT or migrant drivers. 
 
How will they verify this?
— Amy Tarkanian (@MrsT106) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrsT106/status/1443887848445390849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

While authorities hoped this would earn them praises for this act, locals have called them out for alienating these groups.<o:p></o:p>

"Child and old age poverty, single mothers at their financial limit, pensioners who have to live on bottle deposits and leftovers from garbage cans," a local tweeted. "But for City Councilor Thomas Morlock in Hanau there is nothing more important than setting an example for tolerance."<o:p></o:p>

Another user, Amy Tarkanian, raised a valid question about "how will they verify this?". Another user rose to her support by asking the same question. "How do you enforce this? are people now gonna start getting gay licenses like they do for handicap parking spots?,"&nbsp;the user tweeted.<o:p></o:p>

Some members of the LGBT community have tried to make the best of it and urged fellow drivers to park in the 'Diversity Spaces' whenever they want and show solidarity with the community.<o:p></o:p>

A car park in Germany decided to show its support to the LGBTQ community and migrants by painting a rainbow flag on one of its walls and reserving specific parking spots.

A car park in Germany decided to show its support to the LGBTQ community and migrants by painting a rainbow flag on one of its walls and reserving specific parking spots. The authorities claim that they reserved parking spots specially for the LGBT drivers and migrants as they have a "special need for protection and security in public spaces," a local councillor explained. NEW - A car park located in Germany has unveiled dedicated parking spaces reserved for LGBTQ and migrant drivers. The aim is to help people who feel "a special need for protection". pic.twitter.com/FeGDl6NPma — BristolBlues 🇬🇧🇬🇧 (@BristolBlues40) October 1, 2021 × This decision was taken for Hanauer Parkhaus in Hanau of Germany. Three parking spots have been reserved for LGBT and migrant drivers. Also read | New Zealand locals send record 100,000 submissions to ban LGBT conversion practices The selected parking spots are next to each other and are closer to the exit of the multi-storey parking lot. With a rainbow (also known as 'pride flag') painted on the back wall, these spaces are also specifically monitored by security cameras. Hanau, Germany will be introducing reserved “diversity” parking spaces for LGBT or migrant drivers. How will they verify this? — Amy Tarkanian (@MrsT106) October 1, 2021 × While authorities hoped this would earn them praises for this act, locals have called them out for alienating these groups. "Child and old age poverty, single mothers at their financial limit, pensioners who have to live on bottle deposits and leftovers from garbage cans," a local tweeted. "But for City Councilor Thomas Morlock in Hanau there is nothing more important than setting an example for tolerance." Another user, Amy Tarkanian, raised a valid question about "how will they verify this?". Another user rose to her support by asking the same question. "How do you enforce this? are people now gonna start getting gay licenses like they do for handicap parking spots?," the user tweeted. Some members of the LGBT community have tried to make the best of it and urged fellow drivers to park in the 'Diversity Spaces' whenever they want and show solidarity with the community.

'Diversity spaces': Germany reserves parking spots for LGBT community and migrants

Stars and cast members walked the pink carpet in London on Monday for the premiere of the film adaptation of the musical 'Everybody`s Talking About Jamie.' 
 
The musical is based on the true story of Jamie Campbell, a 16-year-old boy from the small British town of Sheffield who dreams of becoming a drag queen. Central to the storyline is Jamie`s strong relationship with his mother. 
 
Newcomer Max Harwood plays the titular role and told Reuters he felt it was important for queer representation that the story be told around the world. 
 
"It`s important that queer stories also become universal and that they don`t become sidelined as queer films," Harwood said. "Everyone can relate to growing up and trying to find their place in the world." 
 
The musical opened at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield in 2017 and was taken to London`s West End in the same year. The UK tour began in 2020, and the musical is due to make its American premiere in Los Angeles next year. 
 
Real-life Jamie, who first told his story in a television documentary in 2011, said he was thrilled it would now reach more people through the film. 
 
"As gay characters usually, you may be a secondary character or something in the background or put in for jokes, whereas this film and show is about putting Jamie at the centre of it all and that doesn`t happen very often," said Campbell. 
 
The film and stage productions are directed by Jonathan Butterell and written by John MacRae, with music by The Feeling rock band`s frontman Dan Gillespie Sells. This is the first movie for all three and was the first theatre show for MacRae and Gillespie Sells. 
 
Shobna Gulati reprises her on-stage role as parental figure Ray, while actress Lauren Patel plays Jamie`s best friend, Pritti Pasha. 
 
 
 
(Reporting by Mindy Burrows; Editing by Karishma Singh) 
&nbsp;

Stars and cast members walked the pink carpet in London on Monday for the premiere of the film adaptation of the musical 'Everybody`s Talking About Jamie.' The musical is based on the true story of Jamie Campbell, a 16-year-old boy from the small British town of Sheffield who dreams of becoming a drag queen.

Stars and cast members walked the pink carpet in London on Monday for the premiere of the film adaptation of the musical 'Everybody`s Talking About Jamie.' The musical is based on the true story of Jamie Campbell, a 16-year-old boy from the small British town of Sheffield who dreams of becoming a drag queen. Central to the storyline is Jamie`s strong relationship with his mother. Newcomer Max Harwood plays the titular role and told Reuters he felt it was important for queer representation that the story be told around the world. "It`s important that queer stories also become universal and that they don`t become sidelined as queer films," Harwood said. "Everyone can relate to growing up and trying to find their place in the world." The musical opened at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield in 2017 and was taken to London`s West End in the same year. The UK tour began in 2020, and the musical is due to make its American premiere in Los Angeles next year. Real-life Jamie, who first told his story in a television documentary in 2011, said he was thrilled it would now reach more people through the film. "As gay characters usually, you may be a secondary character or something in the background or put in for jokes, whereas this film and show is about putting Jamie at the centre of it all and that doesn`t happen very often," said Campbell. The film and stage productions are directed by Jonathan Butterell and written by John MacRae, with music by The Feeling rock band`s frontman Dan Gillespie Sells. This is the first movie for all three and was the first theatre show for MacRae and Gillespie Sells. Shobna Gulati reprises her on-stage role as parental figure Ray, while actress Lauren Patel plays Jamie`s best friend, Pritti Pasha. (Reporting by Mindy Burrows; Editing by Karishma Singh)

Making queer stories universal: 'Everybody's Talking About Jamie' premieres in London

In the age of removing inequalities, Israel has decided to take a major step to give more recognition and rights to the LGBT community.

Putting an end to decades old rule, on Thursday, Israel government announced that the gay men will now be able to donate blood.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-several-killed-amid-firing-by-taliban-and-stampede-during-rally-in-asadabad-406687" hreflang="en">LIVE Afghanistan: Several killed amid firing by Taliban during rally</a></h2>

"The prohibition on gay men donating blood was a relic of a stereotype that belongs in the past,"&nbsp;Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz announced. "Any blood donor seeking to save lives will receive the same treatment, regardless of his gender or sexual orientation."

Usually someone hoping to donate blood is asked to fill a questionnaire in advance in which one question inquired if a man has had any sexual relationship with another man. That clause will now be removed, as per the Health Minister.

"The clause prohibiting receiving blood from a man who had sexual relations with another man (even a permanent partner) will be cancelled,"&nbsp;a statement from the health ministry announced.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-wion-special-women-in-taliban-country-406870">WATCH</a>&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-wion-special-women-in-taliban-country-406870/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Now the new questionnaires will now instead ask the donators if they have had "high-risk sexual relations with a new partner or multiple partners"&nbsp;in the past three months.

As of now, gay men could donate blood only if they hadn’t had sexual relationship with another man in the last 12 months.

After the health minister, who himself is a gay man, announced the new rule, the Association for LGBTQ Equality in Israel appreciated the move as a "historic move for the Proud community and the Israeli society on its way to equality".

"The blood of hundreds of thousands of citizens is not second class," the association's statement added.

In the age of removing inequalities, Israel has decided to take a major step to give more recognition and rights to the LGBT community. Putting an end to decades old rule, on Thursday, Israel government announced that the gay men will now be able to donate blood.

In the age of removing inequalities, Israel has decided to take a major step to give more recognition and rights to the LGBT community. Putting an end to decades old rule, on Thursday, Israel government announced that the gay men will now be able to donate blood. LIVE Afghanistan: Several killed amid firing by Taliban during rally "The prohibition on gay men donating blood was a relic of a stereotype that belongs in the past," Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz announced. "Any blood donor seeking to save lives will receive the same treatment, regardless of his gender or sexual orientation." Usually someone hoping to donate blood is asked to fill a questionnaire in advance in which one question inquired if a man has had any sexual relationship with another man. That clause will now be removed, as per the Health Minister. "The clause prohibiting receiving blood from a man who had sexual relations with another man (even a permanent partner) will be cancelled," a statement from the health ministry announced. WATCH Now the new questionnaires will now instead ask the donators if they have had "high-risk sexual relations with a new partner or multiple partners" in the past three months. As of now, gay men could donate blood only if they hadn’t had sexual relationship with another man in the last 12 months. After the health minister, who himself is a gay man, announced the new rule, the Association for LGBTQ Equality in Israel appreciated the move as a "historic move for the Proud community and the Israeli society on its way to equality". "The blood of hundreds of thousands of citizens is not second class," the association's statement added.

Israel to now allow gay men to donate blood

Taking the progressive mindset a step forward, Hong Kong’s High Court has ruled in favour of the LGBTQ community with regard to owning subsidised housing.

The Hong Kong High Court ruled that the existing housing policies are discriminatory as it denies same-sex couples to own a house together.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-take-part-in-polands-pride-march-392718" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-take-part-in-polands-pride-march-392718&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiJzcbL0LLxAhXA8HMBHVCKD24QFjADegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0-NcpgZpyU_KLcscgltknW" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-take-part-in-polands-pride-march-392718" target="_blank">Thousands take part in Poland's Pride march</a>

Although Hong Kong does not recognise same-sex marriage, the court said not acknowledging same-sex partners as a tenant’s family member "constitute unlawful discrimination on the ground of sexual orientation".

Henry Li and his deceased partner Edgar Ng filed a case against the city government’s discriminatory policies in 2019, but Ng took his own life in December after battling depression. The hearings for this case began only in April 2021.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-slams-hungarys-anti-lgbt-law-as-an-affront-to-human-rights-392475">Britain slams Hungary's anti-LGBT+ law as an 'affront to human rights'</a>

Ng believed that if he dies died his property would not be passed on to his partner, which was discriminatory and unfair, and therefore the couple had filed against this rule.

In the recent hearing, the Justice Anderson Chow said that the city housing policies should not deny same-sex partners joint occupancy and ownership rights as it is a violation of the Basic Law.

Taking the progressive mindset a step forward, Hong Kong’s High Court has ruled in favour of the LGBTQ community with regard to owning subsidised housing. The Hong Kong High Court ruled that the existing housing policies are discriminatory as it denies same-sex couples to own a house together.

Taking the progressive mindset a step forward, Hong Kong’s High Court has ruled in favour of the LGBTQ community with regard to owning subsidised housing. The Hong Kong High Court ruled that the existing housing policies are discriminatory as it denies same-sex couples to own a house together. Also read | Thousands take part in Poland's Pride march Although Hong Kong does not recognise same-sex marriage, the court said not acknowledging same-sex partners as a tenant’s family member "constitute unlawful discrimination on the ground of sexual orientation". Henry Li and his deceased partner Edgar Ng filed a case against the city government’s discriminatory policies in 2019, but Ng took his own life in December after battling depression. The hearings for this case began only in April 2021. Also read | Britain slams Hungary's anti-LGBT+ law as an 'affront to human rights' Ng believed that if he dies died his property would not be passed on to his partner, which was discriminatory and unfair, and therefore the couple had filed against this rule. In the recent hearing, the Justice Anderson Chow said that the city housing policies should not deny same-sex partners joint occupancy and ownership rights as it is a violation of the Basic Law.

'Discriminatory policy': Hong Kong court rules in favour of LGBTQ community

In the last couple of months, South Africa's LGBT+ community has been robbed by a series of brutal hate crimes against its members all across the country. The community is now taking the help of social media to appeal to the government to address the issue.

Rising hate crimes against South Africa's LGBT+ community

Love language: Jerusalem celebrates Pride under strict security

'All for love, love for all': Meet Luong The Huy, Vietnam's first openly-gay parliament candidate

Singer Demi Lovato has come out as pansexual. Lovato appeared recently on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast and revealed that she's pansexual- which meant she's attracted to all genders.&nbsp; 
 
Lovato said she's proud to be a part of the "alphabet mafia," referring to the LGBTQIA+ community. 
 
When Lovato was asked if she would like to have children, she said, "I used to. I think if anything I want to adopt. I was engaged to a man last year." The 28-year-old singer was engaged to Max Ehrich for a brief period in 2020.&nbsp; 
 
"I totally thought I'd be married, maybe pregnant by now. And that's not the case," she added. 
 
"I also don't know if I'm going to end up with a guy, so I can't really see myself maybe getting pregnant. I'm so fluid now — and a part of the reason why I am so fluid is because I was super closeted off."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-demi-lovato-chronicles-relapse-overdose-in-new-song-dancing-with-the-devil-373639">Demi Lovato chronicles relapse, overdose in new song 'Dancing With The Devil'</a> 
 
Host Rogan clarified that by calling herself "sexually fluid" she was indicating that she was interested in both men and women. "Yeah- anything really," said Lovato in response.&nbsp; 
 
Rogan asked if the term is "pansexual" and Lovato replied, "Yeah, pansexual." 
 
Lovato said sha had heard someone call the LGBTQIA+ community the “alphabet mafia” — and loved the term. 
 
“That's it! That's what I'm going with. I’m part of the alphabet mafia and proud,” she said. 
 
During the podcast, Lovato was also asked about the time she realised she was interested in both men and women. To which she said, it was while watching 1999's 'Cruel Intentions' and seeing Sarah Michelle Gellar and Selma Blair.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-demi-lovato-feels-shes-too-queer-to-be-romantic-with-a-cisgender-man-370351">Demi Lovato feels she's 'too queer' to be romantic with a cisgender man</a> 
 
"I was like, 'Oh, I like that,'" she recalled. "But I felt a lot of shame because growing up in Texas as a Christian that's very frowned upon. Any attraction I had to a female at a young age, I shut it down before I even let myself process what I was feeling." 
 
Earlier while appearing on the cover of Glamour magazine, Lovato had opened up about her breakup with Ehrich and how it made her realise 'how queer' she was. The singer had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/demi-lovato-is-waiting-until-a-specific-timeline-to-come-out-to-the-world-369899">though shied away from coming out </a>during the interview which came out earlier this month.&nbsp; 
 
“I know who I am and what I am, but I’m just waiting until a specific timeline to come out to the world as what I am. I’m following my healers’ timeline, and I’m using this time to really study and educate myself on my journey and what I’m preparing to do," Lovato had said.&nbsp; 
 
Lovato has, though, been out as sexually fluid since 2017. In her YouTube documentary, 'Simply Complicated', Lovato had said she was open to dating men and women, explaining, "I am open to human connection. So whether that's through a male or a female, it doesn't matter to me." 
 
The singer is, at present, promoting her new YouTube doc 'Dancing With the Devil', which details her 2018 drug overdose. The singer has revealed she was minutes away from dying and how she was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/demi-lovato-claims-she-was-sexually-assaulted-by-her-drug-dealer-on-the-night-of-her-overdose-episode-371057">sexually assaulted the night of her overdose by her drug dealer.</a> Lovato had also revealed that she lost her virginity in "a rape" when she was 15-years-old.&nbsp;

Singer Demi Lovato has come out as pansexual. Lovato appeared recently on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast and revealed that she's pansexual- which meant she's attracted to all genders.

Singer Demi Lovato has come out as pansexual. Lovato appeared recently on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast and revealed that she's pansexual- which meant she's attracted to all genders. Lovato said she's proud to be a part of the "alphabet mafia," referring to the LGBTQIA+ community. When Lovato was asked if she would like to have children, she said, "I used to. I think if anything I want to adopt. I was engaged to a man last year." The 28-year-old singer was engaged to Max Ehrich for a brief period in 2020. "I totally thought I'd be married, maybe pregnant by now. And that's not the case," she added. "I also don't know if I'm going to end up with a guy, so I can't really see myself maybe getting pregnant. I'm so fluid now — and a part of the reason why I am so fluid is because I was super closeted off." Demi Lovato chronicles relapse, overdose in new song 'Dancing With The Devil' Host Rogan clarified that by calling herself "sexually fluid" she was indicating that she was interested in both men and women. "Yeah- anything really," said Lovato in response. Rogan asked if the term is "pansexual" and Lovato replied, "Yeah, pansexual." Lovato said sha had heard someone call the LGBTQIA+ community the “alphabet mafia” — and loved the term. “That's it! That's what I'm going with. I’m part of the alphabet mafia and proud,” she said. During the podcast, Lovato was also asked about the time she realised she was interested in both men and women. To which she said, it was while watching 1999's 'Cruel Intentions' and seeing Sarah Michelle Gellar and Selma Blair. Demi Lovato feels she's 'too queer' to be romantic with a cisgender man "I was like, 'Oh, I like that,'" she recalled. "But I felt a lot of shame because growing up in Texas as a Christian that's very frowned upon. Any attraction I had to a female at a young age, I shut it down before I even let myself process what I was feeling." Earlier while appearing on the cover of Glamour magazine, Lovato had opened up about her breakup with Ehrich and how it made her realise 'how queer' she was. The singer had though shied away from coming out during the interview which came out earlier this month. “I know who I am and what I am, but I’m just waiting until a specific timeline to come out to the world as what I am. I’m following my healers’ timeline, and I’m using this time to really study and educate myself on my journey and what I’m preparing to do," Lovato had said. Lovato has, though, been out as sexually fluid since 2017. In her YouTube documentary, 'Simply Complicated', Lovato had said she was open to dating men and women, explaining, "I am open to human connection. So whether that's through a male or a female, it doesn't matter to me." The singer is, at present, promoting her new YouTube doc 'Dancing With the Devil', which details her 2018 drug overdose. The singer has revealed she was minutes away from dying and how she was sexually assaulted the night of her overdose by her drug dealer. Lovato had also revealed that she lost her virginity in "a rape" when she was 15-years-old.

Demi Lovato comes out as pansexual, says she is 'sexually fluid'

lgbtq-community

Lgbtq Community, News on Lgbtq Community, stories on Lgbtq Community, articles on Lgbtq Community, Lgbtq Community stories at Wion, Lgbtq Community news, Lgbtq Community latest news

lgbtq community