<p>EU leaders holding a summit Thursday attacked&nbsp;Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban over a new law in his country banning LGBTQ content in schools, which they view as homophobic and contrary to EU values.</p>

<p>Orban was virtually isolated as most of his 26 counterparts rounded on him in what one EU official described as an "in-depth and at times even emotional debate".</p>

<p>The most strident was Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte -- who, on his way into the summit, had told journalists "for me,&nbsp;Hungary&nbsp;has no place in the EU anymore".</p>

<p>Facing Orban inside, Rutte said: "You have passed the line. This time it is too much,"&nbsp;according to another EU official in the room.</p>

<p>Others joined in the criticism, delivering a scathing broadside to&nbsp;Hungary's nationalist leader, who has frequently clashed with Brussels and with EU counterparts over his socially conservative policies and perceived undercutting of democratic norms.</p>

<p>"Being homosexual is not a choice. Being homophobic is a choice. We cannot accept legislation that is legitimising such a behaviour," Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo was said to have told Orban.</p>

<p>"You've crossed a red line," Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel -- the only openly gay leader at the summit -- reportedly said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deaths-outnumber-births-in-britain-for-the-first-time-since-1976-393790"><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;Deaths outnumber births in Britain for the first time since 1976</strong></a></p>

<p>The extraordinary attacks overshadowed the first day of the two-day summit, whose agenda also covered fraught ties with Russia and Turkey, and the bloc's handling of the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>'Not a diplomatic discussion'</strong></p>

<p>German Chancellor Angela Merkel said early Friday, after the lengthy first day came to an end, that "it was certainly a controversial, but very, very frank discussion".</p>

<p>She said "we all made it very clear here what fundamental values we are pursuing" and the European Commission "will now continue to deal with the Hungarian law".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said before the summit that her executive would challenge the basis of the law.</p>

<p>De Croo told journalists after leaving the summit that the haranguing of Orban was unprecedented at such gatherings.</p>

<p>"This was not a diplomatic discussion, this was quite confrontational," he said.</p>

<p>He added that only Poland and Slovenia -- the latter "a little bit" -- had offered&nbsp;Hungary&nbsp;support.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Orban however was characteristically defiant in the room.</p>

<p>As he headed into the summit on Thursday he insisted to journalists that his fellow leaders had misunderstood the legislation.</p>

<p>"This is not against homosexuality... It's about the right of the kids and the parents," he said.</p>

<p>"It's about how a child learns about sexuality... and decisions about that are exclusively the business of parents," he said.</p>

<p><strong>'Grave concerns'</strong></p>

<p>Even before the summit, most EU countries -- 17 of them, including heavyweights Germany, France, Italy and Spain -- had made their criticism clear.</p>

<p>They signed a joint declaration raising "grave concerns" over the Hungarian law and a follow-up letter deploring any threats to "the principle of non-discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation".</p>

<p>UN chief Antonio Guterres, who attended the opening of the summit, also said of the Hungarian law: "No discrimination is acceptable in any circumstances, and any discrimination against LGBTIQ+ people is totally unacceptable in our modern societies."</p>

<p>Hungary's law titled the "Anti-Paedophilia Act", was originally aimed at toughening punishments for child abuse.</p>

<p>But its final draft contains amendments that critics say conflate paedophilia with homosexuality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The law bans the "promotion of homosexuality"&nbsp;to under-18s, and says that only government-approved instructors are allowed to teach sex education in schools. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Firms cannot run ads showing support for the LGBTQ community if they are seen as targeting minors, according to the law.&nbsp;</p>


EU leaders holding a summit Thursday attacked Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban over a new law in his country banning LGBTQ content in schools, which they view as homophobic and contrary to EU values.

EU leaders holding a summit Thursday attacked Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban over a new law in his country banning LGBTQ content in schools, which they view as homophobic and contrary to EU values. Orban was virtually isolated as most of his 26 counterparts rounded on him in what one EU official described as an "in-depth and at times even emotional debate". The most strident was Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte -- who, on his way into the summit, had told journalists "for me, Hungary has no place in the EU anymore". Facing Orban inside, Rutte said: "You have passed the line. This time it is too much," according to another EU official in the room. Others joined in the criticism, delivering a scathing broadside to Hungary's nationalist leader, who has frequently clashed with Brussels and with EU counterparts over his socially conservative policies and perceived undercutting of democratic norms. "Being homosexual is not a choice. Being homophobic is a choice. We cannot accept legislation that is legitimising such a behaviour," Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo was said to have told Orban. "You've crossed a red line," Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel -- the only openly gay leader at the summit -- reportedly said. Also Read | Deaths outnumber births in Britain for the first time since 1976 The extraordinary attacks overshadowed the first day of the two-day summit, whose agenda also covered fraught ties with Russia and Turkey, and the bloc's handling of the coronavirus pandemic. 'Not a diplomatic discussion' German Chancellor Angela Merkel said early Friday, after the lengthy first day came to an end, that "it was certainly a controversial, but very, very frank discussion". She said "we all made it very clear here what fundamental values we are pursuing" and the European Commission "will now continue to deal with the Hungarian law". Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said before the summit that her executive would challenge the basis of the law. De Croo told journalists after leaving the summit that the haranguing of Orban was unprecedented at such gatherings. "This was not a diplomatic discussion, this was quite confrontational," he said. He added that only Poland and Slovenia -- the latter "a little bit" -- had offered Hungary support. Orban however was characteristically defiant in the room. As he headed into the summit on Thursday he insisted to journalists that his fellow leaders had misunderstood the legislation. "This is not against homosexuality... It's about the right of the kids and the parents," he said. "It's about how a child learns about sexuality... and decisions about that are exclusively the business of parents," he said. 'Grave concerns' Even before the summit, most EU countries -- 17 of them, including heavyweights Germany, France, Italy and Spain -- had made their criticism clear. They signed a joint declaration raising "grave concerns" over the Hungarian law and a follow-up letter deploring any threats to "the principle of non-discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation". UN chief Antonio Guterres, who attended the opening of the summit, also said of the Hungarian law: "No discrimination is acceptable in any circumstances, and any discrimination against LGBTIQ+ people is totally unacceptable in our modern societies." Hungary's law titled the "Anti-Paedophilia Act", was originally aimed at toughening punishments for child abuse. But its final draft contains amendments that critics say conflate paedophilia with homosexuality. The law bans the "promotion of homosexuality" to under-18s, and says that only government-approved instructors are allowed to teach sex education in schools. Firms cannot run ads showing support for the LGBTQ community if they are seen as targeting minors, according to the law.

EU leaders confront Hungary PM over LGBTQ law

German Chancellor Angela Merkel criticised a new law in Hungary banning LGBTQ educational content for children as 'wrong'. The German leader said she saw it as a contradiction that single-sex partnerships are allowed in Hungary but education about them is restricted.

Angela Merkel condemns Hungary's new LGBTQ law as 'wrong'

<p>Japan is at a "turning point" for LGBTQ rights, campaigners said Wednesday, vowing to use the Tokyo Olympics as a catalyst for change as they called on lawmakers to approve an anti-discrimination bill.</p>

<p>The country has seen a renewed push for legislation protecting the rights of sexual minorities, with opinion polls showing growing support for LGBTQ-friendly laws, especially among younger people.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-ban-lgbtq-conversion-therapy-and-provide-more-support-to-community-384434">UK to ban LGBTQ conversion therapy and provide more support to community</a></strong></p>

<p>An increasing number of local governments and private companies are introducing more inclusive policies, and a recent landmark court verdict called the failure to recognise same-sex marriage unconstitutional.</p>

<p>But approval of the proposed anti-discrimination bill has been waylaid as members of the conservative ruling party discuss the details.</p>

<p>During one debate in May, a Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lawmaker sparked outrage by reportedly saying same-sex relationships threaten "the preservation of the species".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-lady-gaga-to-elton-john-celebrating-hollywoods-lgbtq-icons-303370">From Lady Gaga to Elton John, celebrating Hollywood's LGBTQ icons</a></strong></p>

<p>Yuri Igarashi, director of the LGBTQ rights group J-ALL, told reporters there was still time for the proposed law to be passed before the parliament session ends next week.</p>

<p>"We would like them to fulfil their promise to the people of this country," she said, citing a 2019 election pledge by the LDP to "promote understanding" of LGBTQ issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the UN, Japan has supported an anti-discrimination resolution, Igarashi added, while Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga recently spoke out against prejudice and discrimination.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-step-up-and-two-steps-back-360670">One step up and two steps back</a></strong></p>

<p>"We believe this is a true turning point, and I'd like to really stress the importance of establishing a new law in the current Diet," or parliament session, she said.</p>

<p>The issue is in the international spotlight as this summer's virus-postponed Games approach, said Gon Matsunaka, head of Pride House Tokyo, a community hub recognised as part of the Olympic programme.</p>

<p>"The Tokyo 2020 Olympics is galvanising huge international attention to how this country is going to address LGBTQ issues," he told reporters at the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Japan.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>"By utilising this huge momentum, we aim to do two things: first, to create change inside Japan's sport industry, and second, creating change in society itself."</p>

<p>While Japan has some protections for sexual minorities, it remains the only G7 country that does not recognise same-sex unions, and many couples say they can struggle to rent apartments together and are even barred from hospital visits.</p>

<p>It is "very difficult" for LGBTQ sports figures in Japan to be honest about their sexuality, said Fumino Sugiyama, a former athlete who was on the national women's fencing team before coming out as a transgender man.</p>

<p>Athletes are afraid they will disappoint their fans and families, or that they will face discrimination from their sports association that could hinder their career, Sugiyama explained.</p>

<p>The Olympic Charter states that "every individual must have the possibility of practising sport, without discrimination of any kind".</p>

<p>Japan's proposed anti-discrimination law has been under discussion for years and gained traction after a group of lawyers began working on it in 2015.</p>


Japan is at a "turning point" for LGBTQ rights, campaigners said Wednesday, vowing to use the Tokyo Olympics as a catalyst for change as they called on lawmakers to approve an anti-discrimination bill.

Japan is at a "turning point" for LGBTQ rights, campaigners said Wednesday, vowing to use the Tokyo Olympics as a catalyst for change as they called on lawmakers to approve an anti-discrimination bill. The country has seen a renewed push for legislation protecting the rights of sexual minorities, with opinion polls showing growing support for LGBTQ-friendly laws, especially among younger people. Also read | UK to ban LGBTQ conversion therapy and provide more support to community An increasing number of local governments and private companies are introducing more inclusive policies, and a recent landmark court verdict called the failure to recognise same-sex marriage unconstitutional. But approval of the proposed anti-discrimination bill has been waylaid as members of the conservative ruling party discuss the details. During one debate in May, a Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lawmaker sparked outrage by reportedly saying same-sex relationships threaten "the preservation of the species". Also read | From Lady Gaga to Elton John, celebrating Hollywood's LGBTQ icons Yuri Igarashi, director of the LGBTQ rights group J-ALL, told reporters there was still time for the proposed law to be passed before the parliament session ends next week. "We would like them to fulfil their promise to the people of this country," she said, citing a 2019 election pledge by the LDP to "promote understanding" of LGBTQ issues. At the UN, Japan has supported an anti-discrimination resolution, Igarashi added, while Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga recently spoke out against prejudice and discrimination. Also read | One step up and two steps back "We believe this is a true turning point, and I'd like to really stress the importance of establishing a new law in the current Diet," or parliament session, she said. The issue is in the international spotlight as this summer's virus-postponed Games approach, said Gon Matsunaka, head of Pride House Tokyo, a community hub recognised as part of the Olympic programme. "The Tokyo 2020 Olympics is galvanising huge international attention to how this country is going to address LGBTQ issues," he told reporters at the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Japan. Also read | Journey of lesbian magazine 'Curve' hits screens this Pride month "By utilising this huge momentum, we aim to do two things: first, to create change inside Japan's sport industry, and second, creating change in society itself." While Japan has some protections for sexual minorities, it remains the only G7 country that does not recognise same-sex unions, and many couples say they can struggle to rent apartments together and are even barred from hospital visits. It is "very difficult" for LGBTQ sports figures in Japan to be honest about their sexuality, said Fumino Sugiyama, a former athlete who was on the national women's fencing team before coming out as a transgender man. Athletes are afraid they will disappoint their fans and families, or that they will face discrimination from their sports association that could hinder their career, Sugiyama explained. The Olympic Charter states that "every individual must have the possibility of practising sport, without discrimination of any kind". Japan's proposed anti-discrimination law has been under discussion for years and gained traction after a group of lawyers began working on it in 2015.

Japan at 'turning point' for LGBTQ rights: Campaigners

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

<p>Popular singer Ricky Martin, who lives with his husband Jwan Yosef, and has four children Lucia, Valentino, Matteo, and Renn, has opened up about his family.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"I just want to normalise families like mine. I know it`s very interesting for a lot of people who tell me, `Thank you Ricky for posting that picture with you and your husband and your kids. That made me feel better about myself`," Martin said on 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show.'&nbsp;</p>

<p>Martin, who ruled the pop charts in the 1990s, came out as homosexual in 2010. The singer had back then shared a post on his official website and said, "I am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man. I am very blessed to be who I am." Martin announced he is marriage to Yosef during an appearance on Ellen DeGeneres' show.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over the years, the singer has dabbled in acting and appeared in two TV series.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In his recent outing on Ellen's show, the singer also revealed that his daughter Lucia can`t stand his singing!<br />
<br />
"I have one little girl that has two daddies and three brothers -- she`s two years old -- and she knows it. She knows it. She doesn`t snap fingers yet, but she`s about to," he said.<br />
<br />
Martin further added,&nbsp;"She runs the house. The other day she loved `Cocomelon`, so I`m singing with her in `Cocomelon`. And she goes, `No, no, Daddy -- no, stop. Stop, stop, stop`. And I`m like, `Let me sing, I want to sing!`"</p>


Popular singer Ricky Martin, who lives with his husband Jwan Yosef, and has four children Lucia, Valentino, Matteo, and Renn, has opened up about his family. "I just want to normalise families like mine.

Popular singer Ricky Martin, who lives with his husband Jwan Yosef, and has four children Lucia, Valentino, Matteo, and Renn, has opened up about his family. "I just want to normalise families like mine. I know it`s very interesting for a lot of people who tell me, `Thank you Ricky for posting that picture with you and your husband and your kids. That made me feel better about myself`," Martin said on 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show.' Martin, who ruled the pop charts in the 1990s, came out as homosexual in 2010. The singer had back then shared a post on his official website and said, "I am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man. I am very blessed to be who I am." Martin announced he is marriage to Yosef during an appearance on Ellen DeGeneres' show. Over the years, the singer has dabbled in acting and appeared in two TV series. In his recent outing on Ellen's show, the singer also revealed that his daughter Lucia can`t stand his singing! "I have one little girl that has two daddies and three brothers -- she`s two years old -- and she knows it. She knows it. She doesn`t snap fingers yet, but she`s about to," he said. Martin further added, "She runs the house. The other day she loved `Cocomelon`, so I`m singing with her in `Cocomelon`. And she goes, `No, no, Daddy -- no, stop. Stop, stop, stop`. And I`m like, `Let me sing, I want to sing!`"

Ricky Martin on raising four kids with husband Jwan Yosef: Want to normalise families like mine

<p>In a significant outcome for the LGBTQIA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual and/or Ally) community, the Madras High Court on Monday issued directions to protect them from harassment by authorities and other major stakeholders in society.</p>

<p>According to the court, society was even now grappling to come to terms with same-sex orientation.</p>

<p>The case pertained to a Madurai-based lesbian couple whose relationship was being opposed by their parents, following which the couple fled to Chennai, to seek NGO support and sustain themselves.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/key-takeaways-of-pm-modis-speech-free-vaccine-for-people-above-18-years-80-crore-poor-to-be-provided-free-ration-till-diwali-389975" hreflang="en">Key takeaways of PM Modi's speech: Free vaccine for people above 18 years</a></strong></p>

<p>As their respective daughters fled their homes, the parents filed missing complaints with the local police, which led to filing of FIRs. The couple approached the court after having faced police interrogation at the residential premises in Chennai. They also feared for their safety and security from police harassment and that of their parents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a detailed order, Justice N Anand Venkatesh has outlined the sensitisation programmes that need to be undertaken by police, legal authorities, judiciary, education institutions, workplaces and parents in issues pertaining to the LGBTQIA community.</p>

<p>Some of the significant interim guidelines issued by the Madras High Court include measures to create awareness about the community by conducting sensitisation programmes by respective governments, to eliminate prejudices against the community and channelise them into the mainstream.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vaccine-supply-will-be-increasing-in-the-coming-days-says-pm-modi-389960">Vaccine supply will be increasing in the coming days, says PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>According to Manuraj Sundaram, who represented the Petitioners (Lesbian couple), this order by the Madras High Court stands out for its unprecedented width and scope. "Such a detailed order for the LGBTQIA+ community is unheard of from any court, including the Supreme Court of India. No high court has issued such extensive guidelines, but of course, this development builds upon the SC judgement to annul Section 377 of the IPC," Manuraj told WION.</p>

<p>The court has said that in missing complaints pertaining to the LGBTQIA+ community (in case of consenting adults) —&nbsp;based on statements of the involved persons —&nbsp;the complaint must be closed without harassing the couple. Persons belonging to the community can approach the enlisted NGOs for protecting their rights. Such a list of NGOs and their contact details must be furnished by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE) on their official website and will be updated regularly. Such NGOs are required to maintain data of the individuals approaching them in a confidential manner and share the records to the Ministry twice a year.</p>

<p>In terms of addressing the issues, the court said that it should be via&nbsp;counselling, monetary support, legal assistance with the support of the District Legal Services Authority, or by co-ordinating with the law enforcement agencies about offenses committed against any person belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court said, regarding the issue of accommodation, suitable changes are to be made in existing short stay homes, Anganwadi shelters, and "garima greh" (a shelter home for transgender persons, that offers basic amenities like shelter, food, medical care and recreational facilities and skill development for dignified life).</p>

<p>Parents have been advised that they must be understanding and accept children of diverse gender expressions, sexual orientation, gender identities and gender presentation while providing peer support for parents of such children.</p>

<p>Most importantly, the court has called for a change in curricula of schools and universities to educate students on understanding the LGBTQIA+ community. This includes conducting outreach programs involving the community and NGOs and sensitising parents via PTA meetings to be supportive of gender nonconforming students. Some additional steps include adding third gender in application forms, change of gender and name for transgender persons, ensure availability of gender-neutral restrooms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For workplaces, the court has said that suitable changes must be made in hiring policies for inclusivity, provide support in case of grievances, extend benefits such as insurance, ensure policies to prevent discrimination etc.&nbsp;</p>


In a significant outcome for the LGBTQIA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual and/or Ally) community, the Madras High Court on Monday issued directions to protect them from harassment by authorities and other major stakeholders in society.

In a significant outcome for the LGBTQIA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual and/or Ally) community, the Madras High Court on Monday issued directions to protect them from harassment by authorities and other major stakeholders in society. According to the court, society was even now grappling to come to terms with same-sex orientation. The case pertained to a Madurai-based lesbian couple whose relationship was being opposed by their parents, following which the couple fled to Chennai, to seek NGO support and sustain themselves. Also read | Key takeaways of PM Modi's speech: Free vaccine for people above 18 years As their respective daughters fled their homes, the parents filed missing complaints with the local police, which led to filing of FIRs. The couple approached the court after having faced police interrogation at the residential premises in Chennai. They also feared for their safety and security from police harassment and that of their parents. In a detailed order, Justice N Anand Venkatesh has outlined the sensitisation programmes that need to be undertaken by police, legal authorities, judiciary, education institutions, workplaces and parents in issues pertaining to the LGBTQIA community. Some of the significant interim guidelines issued by the Madras High Court include measures to create awareness about the community by conducting sensitisation programmes by respective governments, to eliminate prejudices against the community and channelise them into the mainstream. Also read | Vaccine supply will be increasing in the coming days, says PM Modi According to Manuraj Sundaram, who represented the Petitioners (Lesbian couple), this order by the Madras High Court stands out for its unprecedented width and scope. "Such a detailed order for the LGBTQIA+ community is unheard of from any court, including the Supreme Court of India. No high court has issued such extensive guidelines, but of course, this development builds upon the SC judgement to annul Section 377 of the IPC," Manuraj told WION. The court has said that in missing complaints pertaining to the LGBTQIA+ community (in case of consenting adults) — based on statements of the involved persons — the complaint must be closed without harassing the couple. Persons belonging to the community can approach the enlisted NGOs for protecting their rights. Such a list of NGOs and their contact details must be furnished by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE) on their official website and will be updated regularly. Such NGOs are required to maintain data of the individuals approaching them in a confidential manner and share the records to the Ministry twice a year. In terms of addressing the issues, the court said that it should be via counselling, monetary support, legal assistance with the support of the District Legal Services Authority, or by co-ordinating with the law enforcement agencies about offenses committed against any person belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community. The court said, regarding the issue of accommodation, suitable changes are to be made in existing short stay homes, Anganwadi shelters, and "garima greh" (a shelter home for transgender persons, that offers basic amenities like shelter, food, medical care and recreational facilities and skill development for dignified life). Parents have been advised that they must be understanding and accept children of diverse gender expressions, sexual orientation, gender identities and gender presentation while providing peer support for parents of such children. Most importantly, the court has called for a change in curricula of schools and universities to educate students on understanding the LGBTQIA+ community. This includes conducting outreach programs involving the community and NGOs and sensitising parents via PTA meetings to be supportive of gender nonconforming students. Some additional steps include adding third gender in application forms, change of gender and name for transgender persons, ensure availability of gender-neutral restrooms. For workplaces, the court has said that suitable changes must be made in hiring policies for inclusivity, provide support in case of grievances, extend benefits such as insurance, ensure policies to prevent discrimination etc.

Madras High Court issues detailed guidelines for more inclusivity for LGBTQIA+ community

Love language: Jerusalem celebrates Pride under strict security

<p>Elliot Page shared a shirtless photo of himself by the pool on Monday. The Canadian actor can be seen in red swim trunks and shows off his perfectly toned abs in the photo. "Trans bb's first swim trunks," Page captioned the image and added the hashtags #transjoy #transisbeautiful.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CPRDYAUhvEt/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by @elliotpage</a></p>
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<p>This is the first time that Page has shared a shirtless photo since having a top surgery that he underwent earlier this year. Top surgery for transgender men is a procedure to remove the breast tissues (subcutaneous mastectomy).<br />
<br />
The actor, born Ellen Page,&nbsp;came out as a transgender man in December 2020.</p>

<p>In March, he gave his first interview since going public, telling TIME magazine that he grew up feeling "like a boy" from an early age but had "to look a certain way" in terms of his acting career, starting at age 10.<br />
<br />
While speaking&nbsp;to Oprah Winfrey recently, Page explained why he had been forthcoming about sharing information about his health to TIME.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"I wanted to talk about it for a couple of reasons," Page told Winfrey.</p>

<p>"I wanted to share with people just how much it has changed my life. And I want people to know that not only has it been life changing for me, I do believe it is life saving and it's the case for so many people... and because there is such an attack on trans health care right now, when already there is such a lack of access or trans people who don't even want to go to the doctor."</p>


Elliot Page shared a shirtless photo of himself by the pool on Monday. The Canadian actor can be seen in red swim trunks and shows off his perfectly toned abs in the photo.

Elliot Page shared a shirtless photo of himself by the pool on Monday. The Canadian actor can be seen in red swim trunks and shows off his perfectly toned abs in the photo. "Trans bb's first swim trunks," Page captioned the image and added the hashtags #transjoy #transisbeautiful. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @elliotpage × This is the first time that Page has shared a shirtless photo since having a top surgery that he underwent earlier this year. Top surgery for transgender men is a procedure to remove the breast tissues (subcutaneous mastectomy). The actor, born Ellen Page, came out as a transgender man in December 2020. In March, he gave his first interview since going public, telling TIME magazine that he grew up feeling "like a boy" from an early age but had "to look a certain way" in terms of his acting career, starting at age 10. While speaking to Oprah Winfrey recently, Page explained why he had been forthcoming about sharing information about his health to TIME. "I wanted to talk about it for a couple of reasons," Page told Winfrey. "I wanted to share with people just how much it has changed my life. And I want people to know that not only has it been life changing for me, I do believe it is life saving and it's the case for so many people... and because there is such an attack on trans health care right now, when already there is such a lack of access or trans people who don't even want to go to the doctor."

Elliot Page shares a shirtless photo by the pool for the first time since coming out as trans man

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

<p>Singer Demi Lovato on Wednesday came out as non-binary and changed pronouns from she/her to they/them.<br />
<br />
Non-binary people typically do not identify themselves as as male or female, and do not conform to gender norms of either.<br />
"Today is a day I'm so happy to share more of my life with you all," Demi wrote on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Every day we wake up, we are given another opportunity &amp; chance to be who we want &amp; wish to be. I’ve spent the majority of my life growing in front of all of you… you’ve seen the good, the bad, &amp; everything in between. <a href="https://t.co/HSBcfmNruo">pic.twitter.com/HSBcfmNruo</a></p>
— Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) <a href="https://twitter.com/ddlovato/status/1394913210856185858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"I am proud to let you know that I identify as non-binary &amp; will officially be changing my pronouns to they/them moving forward."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Not only has my life been a journey for myself, I was also living for those on the other side of the cameras.</p>
— Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) <a href="https://twitter.com/ddlovato/status/1394913213930622982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This has come after a lot of healing &amp; self-reflective work. I’m still learning &amp; coming into myself, &amp; I don’t claim to be an expert or a spokesperson. Sharing this with you now opens another level of vulnerability for me.</p>
— Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) <a href="https://twitter.com/ddlovato/status/1394913218095689729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The singer said they came to to understand their gender identify over the past year after spending time 'healing' and doing 'self-reflective work'.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
" I’m still learning &amp; coming into myself, &amp; I don’t claim to be an expert or a spokesperson. Sharing this with you now opens another level of vulnerability for me," Demi wrote in series of tweets.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I’m doing this for those out there that haven’t been able to share who they truly are with their loved ones. Please keep living in your truths &amp; know I am sending so much love your way xox</p>
— Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) <a href="https://twitter.com/ddlovato/status/1394913220138180610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The singer added that they were doing this, "for those out there that haven’t been able to share who they truly are with their loved ones."<br />
<br />
"Please keep living in your truths &amp; know I am sending so much love your way," they concluded the tweet.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The announcement comes two months after Demi announced she was pansexual and that they were attracted to other regardless of the gender.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Demi has been an outspoken supporter of LGBT rights throughout their career.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In July 2020, Demi had announced engagement to Max Ehrich but broke up two months later. In March 2021, while speaking to Variety, Demi had stated that the broken engagement offered a "huge sign" about their sexuality.&nbsp;</p>


Singer Demi Lovato on Wednesday came out as non-binary and changed pronouns from she/her to they/them. Non-binary people typically do not identify themselves as as male or female, and do not conform to gender norms of either.

Singer Demi Lovato on Wednesday came out as non-binary and changed pronouns from she/her to they/them. Non-binary people typically do not identify themselves as as male or female, and do not conform to gender norms of either. "Today is a day I'm so happy to share more of my life with you all," Demi wrote on Twitter. Every day we wake up, we are given another opportunity & chance to be who we want & wish to be. I’ve spent the majority of my life growing in front of all of you… you’ve seen the good, the bad, & everything in between. pic.twitter.com/HSBcfmNruo — Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) May 19, 2021 × "I am proud to let you know that I identify as non-binary & will officially be changing my pronouns to they/them moving forward." Not only has my life been a journey for myself, I was also living for those on the other side of the cameras. — Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) May 19, 2021 × This has come after a lot of healing & self-reflective work. I’m still learning & coming into myself, & I don’t claim to be an expert or a spokesperson. Sharing this with you now opens another level of vulnerability for me. — Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) May 19, 2021 × The singer said they came to to understand their gender identify over the past year after spending time 'healing' and doing 'self-reflective work'. " I’m still learning & coming into myself, & I don’t claim to be an expert or a spokesperson. Sharing this with you now opens another level of vulnerability for me," Demi wrote in series of tweets. I’m doing this for those out there that haven’t been able to share who they truly are with their loved ones. Please keep living in your truths & know I am sending so much love your way xox — Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) May 19, 2021 × The singer added that they were doing this, "for those out there that haven’t been able to share who they truly are with their loved ones." "Please keep living in your truths & know I am sending so much love your way," they concluded the tweet. The announcement comes two months after Demi announced she was pansexual and that they were attracted to other regardless of the gender. Demi has been an outspoken supporter of LGBT rights throughout their career. In July 2020, Demi had announced engagement to Max Ehrich but broke up two months later. In March 2021, while speaking to Variety, Demi had stated that the broken engagement offered a "huge sign" about their sexuality.

Demi Lovato comes out as non-binary, changes pronouns to they/them

<p>Britain will move to ban conversion therapy and provide more support to those in the LGBTQ community who have undergone the treatment, as part of its post-pandemic government agenda.</p>

<p>The discredited procedure, sometimes referred to as ex-gay therapy, aims to change or suppress a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government said measures would be brought forward to prevent these "abhorrent practices which can cause mental and physical harm," starting with a consultation on how best to protect people and how to eliminate coercive practices.</p>

<p>Johnson's party has come under increasing pressure on the issue after former leader Theresa May vowed in 2018 to eradicate a procedure that aims to change or suppress someone's sexual orientation or gender identity.</p>

<p>However, some faith leaders had argued that a wide ban could implicate those who offer pastoral support including prayer.</p>

<p>Setting out the new parliamentary agenda in a briefing document alongside the Queen's Speech, the government said: "We will ensure medical professionals, religious leaders, teachers and parents can continue to be able to have open and honest conversations with people."</p>

<p>A 2017 National LGBTQ survey found that 5 per cent of those who responded reported being ordered, and 2 per cent reported having undergone, conversion therapy. In more than half of the cases, the therapy was offered or conducted by faith organisations.</p>


Britain will move to ban conversion therapy and provide more support to those in the LGBTQ community who have undergone the treatment, as part of its post-pandemic government agenda.

Britain will move to ban conversion therapy and provide more support to those in the LGBTQ community who have undergone the treatment, as part of its post-pandemic government agenda. The discredited procedure, sometimes referred to as ex-gay therapy, aims to change or suppress a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government said measures would be brought forward to prevent these "abhorrent practices which can cause mental and physical harm," starting with a consultation on how best to protect people and how to eliminate coercive practices. Johnson's party has come under increasing pressure on the issue after former leader Theresa May vowed in 2018 to eradicate a procedure that aims to change or suppress someone's sexual orientation or gender identity. However, some faith leaders had argued that a wide ban could implicate those who offer pastoral support including prayer. Setting out the new parliamentary agenda in a briefing document alongside the Queen's Speech, the government said: "We will ensure medical professionals, religious leaders, teachers and parents can continue to be able to have open and honest conversations with people." A 2017 National LGBTQ survey found that 5 per cent of those who responded reported being ordered, and 2 per cent reported having undergone, conversion therapy. In more than half of the cases, the therapy was offered or conducted by faith organisations.

UK to ban LGBTQ conversion therapy and provide more support to community

A transgender woman has opened Pakistan's first Islamic school for the LGBTQ+ community. In a country with close to 300,000 transgender people, Rani Madrasa offers a ray of hope as they are often subject to abuse and insult.

Your Story: Pakistan's first transgender Madrasa for LGBTQ community

<p>Oscar-nominated actor Elliot Page is speaking up for the first time since publicly coming out as a transgender in December 2020.</p>

<p>In a recent interview to TIME,&nbsp;Page said that he wants to use his "privilege" and "platform" to help others in the transgender community.This was his first&nbsp;interview since publicly coming out as trans in December.</p>

<p>The 34-year-old actor recalled his early days and how felt "like a boy"&nbsp;from an early age. Page said he had to&nbsp;"to look a certain way" in terms of his acting career, starting at age 10.</p>

<p>When he came out as transgender three months ago, "What I was anticipating was a lot of support and love and a massive amount of hatred and transphobia," Page told Time during their emotional interview.</p>

<p>Page said, "That`s essentially what happened." He added later that he wants to be open and honest about who he is to let others know they`re not alone, saying, "Extremely influential people are spreading these myths and damaging rhetoric -- every day you`re seeing our existence debated."</p>

<p>"Transgender people are so very real," Page further said.As for his own "privilege," Page told the magazine that it "has allowed me to have resources to get through and to be where I am today. And of course I want to use that privilege and platform to help in the ways I can," he added.</p>

<p>The `Juno` actor also discussed his childhood, including asking his mother if he "could be (a boy)&nbsp;someday" and being forced off of a boys` competitive soccer team.</p>

<p>Speaking about the anti-trans legislation surrounding sports teams today, Page said, "I would have been in that position as a kid. It`s horrific."</p>

<p>Since Page, who uses he/him and they/them pronouns, came out as transgender, he has been offered a slew of opportunities in terms of acting, directing, and producing -- many related to trans stories, and some "dude roles."</p>

<p>Having played Vanya Hargreeves on `The Umbrella Academy` since it premiered in 2019, Page said the role appealed to him because he "related to how much Vanya was closed off."</p>

<p>When he returned to set to begin filming the Netflix superhero series` third season, co-workers were extremely supportive, although some have used the wrong pronouns accidentally. "It`s going to be an adjustment," said the Oscar nominee. Going forward in his career in general, "I`m really excited to act, now that I`m fully who I am, in this body," Page said. "No matter the challenges and difficult moments of this, nothing amounts to getting to feel how I feel now," the actor added.</p>

<p>Page has starred in films like `Juno`, `X-Men: The Last Stand` and `Inception`. On the personal front, the Oscar-nominated star had filed for divorce from wife and choreographer Emma Portner in New York in January.</p>

<p>The former couple also confirmed their split in a statement to the publication. Announcing their split, the pair had said in a joint statement, "After much thought and careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to divorce following our separation last summer. We have the utmost respect for each other and remain close friends."</p>

<p>The divorce news comes three years after Page and Portner announced that they had tied the knot in a private ceremony in January 2018. The couple had started dating in 2017.</p>


Oscar-nominated actor Elliot Page is speaking up for the first time since publicly coming out as a transgender in December 2020. In a recent interview to TIME, Page said that he wants to use his "privilege" and "platform" to help others in the transgender community.

Oscar-nominated actor Elliot Page is speaking up for the first time since publicly coming out as a transgender in December 2020. In a recent interview to TIME, Page said that he wants to use his "privilege" and "platform" to help others in the transgender community.This was his first interview since publicly coming out as trans in December. The 34-year-old actor recalled his early days and how felt "like a boy" from an early age. Page said he had to "to look a certain way" in terms of his acting career, starting at age 10. When he came out as transgender three months ago, "What I was anticipating was a lot of support and love and a massive amount of hatred and transphobia," Page told Time during their emotional interview. Page said, "That`s essentially what happened." He added later that he wants to be open and honest about who he is to let others know they`re not alone, saying, "Extremely influential people are spreading these myths and damaging rhetoric -- every day you`re seeing our existence debated." "Transgender people are so very real," Page further said.As for his own "privilege," Page told the magazine that it "has allowed me to have resources to get through and to be where I am today. And of course I want to use that privilege and platform to help in the ways I can," he added. The `Juno` actor also discussed his childhood, including asking his mother if he "could be (a boy) someday" and being forced off of a boys` competitive soccer team. Speaking about the anti-trans legislation surrounding sports teams today, Page said, "I would have been in that position as a kid. It`s horrific." Since Page, who uses he/him and they/them pronouns, came out as transgender, he has been offered a slew of opportunities in terms of acting, directing, and producing -- many related to trans stories, and some "dude roles." Having played Vanya Hargreeves on `The Umbrella Academy` since it premiered in 2019, Page said the role appealed to him because he "related to how much Vanya was closed off." When he returned to set to begin filming the Netflix superhero series` third season, co-workers were extremely supportive, although some have used the wrong pronouns accidentally. "It`s going to be an adjustment," said the Oscar nominee. Going forward in his career in general, "I`m really excited to act, now that I`m fully who I am, in this body," Page said. "No matter the challenges and difficult moments of this, nothing amounts to getting to feel how I feel now," the actor added. Page has starred in films like `Juno`, `X-Men: The Last Stand` and `Inception`. On the personal front, the Oscar-nominated star had filed for divorce from wife and choreographer Emma Portner in New York in January. The former couple also confirmed their split in a statement to the publication. Announcing their split, the pair had said in a joint statement, "After much thought and careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to divorce following our separation last summer. We have the utmost respect for each other and remain close friends." The divorce news comes three years after Page and Portner announced that they had tied the knot in a private ceremony in January 2018. The couple had started dating in 2017.

Elliot Page recalled asking his mom as child if he 'could be a boy someday'

As a part of a landmark judgement, Japan court ruled that not allowing same-sex couples to marry is “unconstitutional” because it breaches the right to equality.

Japan: Landmark judgement favours LGBTQ community

<p>American singer Demi Lovato has opened up about the fluidity of her sexuality and her broken engagement with Max Ehrich.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Lovato appeared on the May cover of Glamour magazine and spoke candidly about the time she realised she was queer. "When I started getting older, I started realising how queer I really am," the singer said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This past year, I was engaged to a man, and when it didn`t work, I was like, `This is a huge sign.` I thought I was going to spend my life with someone. Now that I wasn`t going to, I felt this sense of relief that I could live my truth," she shared.<br />
<br />
The singer has had an on-again, off-again romance with Wilmer Valderrama for years before finally calling it quits with him.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Lovato explained that she is giving herself time before she publicly adds more labels to further define herself.<br />
<br />
"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," said Lovato.<br />
<br />
This is not the first time she has discussed her fluidity, as the `Sonny with a Chance` alum shared in the April 2018 issue of `InStyle` that love can be found "in any gender."</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMR4sqlhyoi/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Demi Lovato (@ddlovato)</a></p>
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<p>Last July, she referred to herself as "queer" in an Instagram tribute to her late `Glee` co-star Naya Rivera.<br />
<br />
In the `Glamour` interview, Demi discussed that things felt "right" when she had a romantic encounter with a woman.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"I hooked up with a girl and was like, `I like this a lot more.` It felt better. It felt right," the `Skyscraper` vocalist said.</p>

<p>Demi, who checked into rehab following an apparent drug overdose in July 2018, also explained that while she`s moved on from the substances that caused the overdose, she has decided not to deprive herself when she wants a drink or weed in moderation.<br />
<br />
"I called [my recovery case manager] and was like, `Something`s not right. I`m living one side of my life completely legalizing, and this other side following a program that`s telling me if I slip up, I`m going to die... I think I want to try this balance thing in the substance side of my life, too,`" she said.<br />
<br />
"They were like, `She deserves this opportunity to make that choice for herself.` So I did," added the songstress.&nbsp;</p>


American singer Demi Lovato has opened up about the fluidity of her sexuality and her broken engagement with Max Ehrich. Lovato appeared on the May cover of Glamour magazine and spoke candidly about the time she realised she was queer.

American singer Demi Lovato has opened up about the fluidity of her sexuality and her broken engagement with Max Ehrich. Lovato appeared on the May cover of Glamour magazine and spoke candidly about the time she realised she was queer. "When I started getting older, I started realising how queer I really am," the singer said. "This past year, I was engaged to a man, and when it didn`t work, I was like, `This is a huge sign.` I thought I was going to spend my life with someone. Now that I wasn`t going to, I felt this sense of relief that I could live my truth," she shared. The singer has had an on-again, off-again romance with Wilmer Valderrama for years before finally calling it quits with him. Lovato explained that she is giving herself time before she publicly adds more labels to further define herself. "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," said Lovato. This is not the first time she has discussed her fluidity, as the `Sonny with a Chance` alum shared in the April 2018 issue of `InStyle` that love can be found "in any gender." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) × Last July, she referred to herself as "queer" in an Instagram tribute to her late `Glee` co-star Naya Rivera. In the `Glamour` interview, Demi discussed that things felt "right" when she had a romantic encounter with a woman. "I hooked up with a girl and was like, `I like this a lot more.` It felt better. It felt right," the `Skyscraper` vocalist said. Demi, who checked into rehab following an apparent drug overdose in July 2018, also explained that while she`s moved on from the substances that caused the overdose, she has decided not to deprive herself when she wants a drink or weed in moderation. "I called [my recovery case manager] and was like, `Something`s not right. I`m living one side of my life completely legalizing, and this other side following a program that`s telling me if I slip up, I`m going to die... I think I want to try this balance thing in the substance side of my life, too,`" she said. "They were like, `She deserves this opportunity to make that choice for herself.` So I did," added the songstress.

Demi Lovato is waiting until a 'specific timeline to come out to the world'

Turkey was hit by a wave of student protests last month after Erdogan appointed a loyalist as the head of Bogazici University.

LGBTQ+ groups face rising hate in Turkey

The LGBTQ+ community is facing rising waves of hatred, with rising homophobic discourse this vibrant community is struggling to find its place in Turkey. In the face of growing government hostility, many have taken off in search of a more accepting space.

Targeted by President Erdogan LGBTQ+ groups face hate in Turkey

The chief of Britain's MI6 foreign intelligence service publicly apologised on Friday (February 19) for historic discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT+) people in the spy agencies before 1991.

Britain's MI6 spy master apologizes for historic discrimination against LGBT+ people

A group of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) protesters rallied on Yangon's streets against the military coup and ousting of elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Friday (February 19).

Myanmar LGBTQ protesters take to streets against military coup

LGBTQ activists in Myanmar have joined the growing protest movement against the coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi and her democratically elected government.

Myanmar Protest: LGBTQ community calls for unity & peace

<p>Former British military members who were dismissed from service because of their sexuality are now able to reclaim the medals they were stripped of.</p>

<p>The British Ministry of Defence announced on Tuesday that those who were wrongly sacked - prior to a change in policy in 2000 that allowed previously-banned gay people to serve - will now be able to reclaim medals that were confiscated from them.</p>

<p>Under the scheme, affected former personnel can apply to have their case reviewed by the defence council, with successful applicants receiving a new medal from the MoD’s Medal Office. Relatives of affected ex-military members who have since died are also able to apply for a review. Today, Boris Johnson tweeted to show his support for the scheme, saying: ‘Those who serve in our Armed Forces deserve every recognition for their service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>‘It was a very great injustice that this was denied to some members simply because of their sexuality. ‘I hugely welcome the fact we can now address this historic wrong.’</p>

<p><img alt="Boris Johnson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e43fc862-1321-4ea8-a85b-e7f4299be314" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/boris.JPG" /><br />
<br />
A statement on the UK government website says: "Prior to 2000, a number of armed forces personnel were discharged from service on the basis of their sexuality.</p>

<p>"Some received convictions under specified legislation for homosexual behaviour that has now been de-criminalised, while others were discharged solely on the basis of their sexuality, without any conviction.</p>

<p>"In the course of their discharge, some personnel either forfeited medals directly or were prevented from continuing to serve and thus denied the ability to regain medals that might previously have been forfeited for unrelated reasons.</p>

<p>"The MoD is committed to addressing this historical wrong and is introducing a policy which enables individuals to apply to have their medals restored."</p>


Former British military members who were dismissed from service because of their sexuality are now able to reclaim the medals they were stripped of. The British Ministry of Defence announced on Tuesday that those who were wrongly sacked - prior to a change in policy in 2000 that allowed previously-banned gay people to serve - will now be able to reclaim medals that were confiscated from them.

Former British military members who were dismissed from service because of their sexuality are now able to reclaim the medals they were stripped of. The British Ministry of Defence announced on Tuesday that those who were wrongly sacked - prior to a change in policy in 2000 that allowed previously-banned gay people to serve - will now be able to reclaim medals that were confiscated from them. Under the scheme, affected former personnel can apply to have their case reviewed by the defence council, with successful applicants receiving a new medal from the MoD’s Medal Office. Relatives of affected ex-military members who have since died are also able to apply for a review. Today, Boris Johnson tweeted to show his support for the scheme, saying: ‘Those who serve in our Armed Forces deserve every recognition for their service. ‘It was a very great injustice that this was denied to some members simply because of their sexuality. ‘I hugely welcome the fact we can now address this historic wrong.’ A statement on the UK government website says: "Prior to 2000, a number of armed forces personnel were discharged from service on the basis of their sexuality. "Some received convictions under specified legislation for homosexual behaviour that has now been de-criminalised, while others were discharged solely on the basis of their sexuality, without any conviction. "In the course of their discharge, some personnel either forfeited medals directly or were prevented from continuing to serve and thus denied the ability to regain medals that might previously have been forfeited for unrelated reasons. "The MoD is committed to addressing this historical wrong and is introducing a policy which enables individuals to apply to have their medals restored."

Sacked for being gay, British soldiers can get their medals back

<p>US President Joe Biden has signed an order that lifts the Pentagon's ban on transgender people serving in the military. It had been put in place by the Trump administration.</p>

<p>This move by Biden administration fulfils a campaign promise and will be cheered by LGBTQ advocates.</p>

<p>In 2016, then-President Barack Obama allowed transgender people to join the military and to receive medical treatment to transition to the gender with which they identity.<br />
<br />
Trump banned recruitment of transgender people but allowed those already in the military to continue serving.</p>

<p>“Today, I repealed the discriminatory ban on transgender people serving in the military. It’s simple: America is safer when everyone qualified to serve can do so openly and with pride,” Biden tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today, I repealed the discriminatory ban on transgender people serving in the military. It’s simple: America is safer when everyone qualified to serve can do so openly and with pride.</p>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1353757273114472449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>When Trump announced the ban in 2017 on Twitter, he said the military needed to focus on "decisive and overwhelming victory" without being burdened by the "tremendous medical costs and disruption" of having transgender personnel.</p>

<p>A November 2020 report by the LGBT-rights think tank the Palm Center co-written by former military Surgeons General said the transgender ban had hurt military readiness.</p>

<p>During his confirmation hearing, Biden's pick to lead the Pentagon, Retired Army General Lloyd Austin, said he supported overturning the ban.</p>

<p>The US Supreme Court ruled that the Trump transgender policy of 2019 could stand while it faces separate lawsuits in lower courts.</p>

<p>About 1.3 million active personnel serve in the US military, Department of Defense data shows. There are no official figures on the number of trans members but the Rand Corp, a US policy research institute, estimated in 2016 about 2,450 active service members were transgender.</p>

<p><strong>'Counting down to this day'</strong></p>

<p>While advocates applaud Biden's move, the fact that any president can decide whether transgender people can serve in the military is problematic, they say. Any American who is fit and able should have the right to serve, they argue.</p>

<p>"We must make sure that future presidents do not backslide on our values of equality and inclusion, and I intend to add a provision to this year's defense policy bill to secure a permanent policy of nondiscrimination for our armed forces," said Congresswoman Jackie Speier, Chair of the House Armed Services Military Personnel Subcommittee.</p>

<p>Nic Talbott, a transgender man, was forced to drop out of the Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) due to Trump's ban. On Monday, he said Biden's move had given him and other transgender people an opportunity to once again join the military.</p>

<p>"This is such a huge relief, such a huge weight off my shoulders," Talbott said.</p>

<p>"I know there are thousands of other people out there just like me who have been counting down to this day, waiting to be able to start our careers and start our lives."</p>

<p>Once the order is implemented, Talbott said he plans to enter another ROTC.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Joe Biden has signed an order that lifts the Pentagon's ban on transgender people serving in the military. It had been put in place by the Trump administration.

US President Joe Biden has signed an order that lifts the Pentagon's ban on transgender people serving in the military. It had been put in place by the Trump administration. This move by Biden administration fulfils a campaign promise and will be cheered by LGBTQ advocates. In 2016, then-President Barack Obama allowed transgender people to join the military and to receive medical treatment to transition to the gender with which they identity. Trump banned recruitment of transgender people but allowed those already in the military to continue serving. “Today, I repealed the discriminatory ban on transgender people serving in the military. It’s simple: America is safer when everyone qualified to serve can do so openly and with pride,” Biden tweeted. Today, I repealed the discriminatory ban on transgender people serving in the military. It’s simple: America is safer when everyone qualified to serve can do so openly and with pride. — President Biden (@POTUS) January 25, 2021 × When Trump announced the ban in 2017 on Twitter, he said the military needed to focus on "decisive and overwhelming victory" without being burdened by the "tremendous medical costs and disruption" of having transgender personnel. A November 2020 report by the LGBT-rights think tank the Palm Center co-written by former military Surgeons General said the transgender ban had hurt military readiness. During his confirmation hearing, Biden's pick to lead the Pentagon, Retired Army General Lloyd Austin, said he supported overturning the ban. The US Supreme Court ruled that the Trump transgender policy of 2019 could stand while it faces separate lawsuits in lower courts. About 1.3 million active personnel serve in the US military, Department of Defense data shows. There are no official figures on the number of trans members but the Rand Corp, a US policy research institute, estimated in 2016 about 2,450 active service members were transgender. 'Counting down to this day' While advocates applaud Biden's move, the fact that any president can decide whether transgender people can serve in the military is problematic, they say. Any American who is fit and able should have the right to serve, they argue. "We must make sure that future presidents do not backslide on our values of equality and inclusion, and I intend to add a provision to this year's defense policy bill to secure a permanent policy of nondiscrimination for our armed forces," said Congresswoman Jackie Speier, Chair of the House Armed Services Military Personnel Subcommittee. Nic Talbott, a transgender man, was forced to drop out of the Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) due to Trump's ban. On Monday, he said Biden's move had given him and other transgender people an opportunity to once again join the military. "This is such a huge relief, such a huge weight off my shoulders," Talbott said. "I know there are thousands of other people out there just like me who have been counting down to this day, waiting to be able to start our careers and start our lives." Once the order is implemented, Talbott said he plans to enter another ROTC. (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden reverses Donald Trump's ban on transgender people in military

<p>Fashion designer Swapnil Shinde has come out as a transgender woman. She has renamed herself Saisha.&nbsp;In a long post on Instagram, Saisha explained the meaning of her name and her decision to come out now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She captioned the post as, "Here we go 2021. P.S.: Saisha means a meaningful life and I plan to make mine an exceptionally meaningful one."<br />
<br />
In the post, Saisha recalled being tormented by boys at a young for being "different".&nbsp;<br />
<br />
She said that she only began accepting her identity in her early twenties. "All through school and college, while the boys outside tormented me because I was different, the internal pain was far worse. I felt suffocated living a reality that I knew wasn't mine, yet one that I had to stage every day because of societal expectations and norms. It was only in my early twenties at NIFT were I found the courage to accept my truth; I truly bloomed," she wrote.<br />
<br />
"I spent the next few years believing that I was attracted to men because I was gay, but it was only 6 years ago that I finally accepted to myself, and today that I accept to you. I'm not a gay man. I am a Transwoman."</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJp3YqwMwRG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by S A I S H A S H I N D E (@officialswapnilshinde)</a></p>
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<p>A popular designer in Bollywood, Saisha has designed outfits for Bollywood stars like Kareena Kapoor, Sunny Leone, Hina Khan, Taapsee Pannu, Bhumi Pednekar and others.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Saisha's post got a lot of support from many of her peers in the fashion industry including stylists Nitasha Gaurav, Tanya Ghavri, Anaita Shroff Adajania, designer Kallol Datta and model Diandra Soares.&nbsp;</p>


Fashion designer Swapnil Shinde has come out as a transgender woman. She has renamed herself Saisha. In a long post on Instagram, Saisha explained the meaning of her name and her decision to come out now.

Fashion designer Swapnil Shinde has come out as a transgender woman. She has renamed herself Saisha. In a long post on Instagram, Saisha explained the meaning of her name and her decision to come out now. She captioned the post as, "Here we go 2021. P.S.: Saisha means a meaningful life and I plan to make mine an exceptionally meaningful one." In the post, Saisha recalled being tormented by boys at a young for being "different". She said that she only began accepting her identity in her early twenties. "All through school and college, while the boys outside tormented me because I was different, the internal pain was far worse. I felt suffocated living a reality that I knew wasn't mine, yet one that I had to stage every day because of societal expectations and norms. It was only in my early twenties at NIFT were I found the courage to accept my truth; I truly bloomed," she wrote. "I spent the next few years believing that I was attracted to men because I was gay, but it was only 6 years ago that I finally accepted to myself, and today that I accept to you. I'm not a gay man. I am a Transwoman." View this post on Instagram A post shared by S A I S H A S H I N D E (@officialswapnilshinde) × A popular designer in Bollywood, Saisha has designed outfits for Bollywood stars like Kareena Kapoor, Sunny Leone, Hina Khan, Taapsee Pannu, Bhumi Pednekar and others. Saisha's post got a lot of support from many of her peers in the fashion industry including stylists Nitasha Gaurav, Tanya Ghavri, Anaita Shroff Adajania, designer Kallol Datta and model Diandra Soares.

Fashion designer Swapnil Shinde comes out as a transgender woman, now called Saisha 

<p>Maddie Hasson has come out as a proud bisexual. The 'Impulse'&nbsp;star made the announcement in an Instagram Story post on Sunday.</p>

<p>When a fan suggested that she post a "Photo of with gay/bi vibe," Hasson replied with a selfie alongside the caption: 'Hi, I'm bi and proud!"</p>

<p><img alt="hasson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="39d047de-bf17-4e60-9882-08b2f32bffc3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/hasson3.JPG" /></p>

<p>She posted the same photo on her Instagram account last week, writing, "hello!"</p>

<p>Hasson's&nbsp;post came a day before her 26th birthday. On Monday, Hasson, who married composer Julian Brink in 2015, gave followers a glimpse of her birthday celebrations, which included a low-key breakfast with eggs, coffee and a Bloody Mary followed by what appeared to be an outdoor picnic.<br />
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<p>"I am king 2day," she captioned a shot of herself trying on a pair of Grenson boots.</p>

<p><img alt="hasson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7aa6d184-5b43-4f09-9e15-d0c2e4a224e5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/hasson2.JPG" /></p>

<p>In 2019, she opened up to Collider about the importance of choosing roles that are different with each project, explaining that "a fear of mine is ever finding myself pigeonholed."</p>

<p>"I don’t wanna do that. I also get bored easily. Because I’ve been playing somebody that really internalizes a lot of their feelings, I’m really itching to play somebody who is very extroverted and externalizes all of their feelings, and it’s like an open wound, and super sensitive and outspoken," she said, referencing her Impulse character Henrietta "Henry" Coles. "I just like to switch it up 'cause I get pretty bored."</p>


Maddie Hasson has come out as a proud bisexual. The 'Impulse' star made the announcement in an Instagram Story post on Sunday. When a fan suggested that she post a "Photo of with gay/bi vibe," Hasson replied with a selfie alongside the caption: 'Hi, I'm bi and proud!

Maddie Hasson has come out as a proud bisexual. The 'Impulse' star made the announcement in an Instagram Story post on Sunday. When a fan suggested that she post a "Photo of with gay/bi vibe," Hasson replied with a selfie alongside the caption: 'Hi, I'm bi and proud!" She posted the same photo on her Instagram account last week, writing, "hello!" Hasson's post came a day before her 26th birthday. On Monday, Hasson, who married composer Julian Brink in 2015, gave followers a glimpse of her birthday celebrations, which included a low-key breakfast with eggs, coffee and a Bloody Mary followed by what appeared to be an outdoor picnic. "I am king 2day," she captioned a shot of herself trying on a pair of Grenson boots. In 2019, she opened up to Collider about the importance of choosing roles that are different with each project, explaining that "a fear of mine is ever finding myself pigeonholed." "I don’t wanna do that. I also get bored easily. Because I’ve been playing somebody that really internalizes a lot of their feelings, I’m really itching to play somebody who is very extroverted and externalizes all of their feelings, and it’s like an open wound, and super sensitive and outspoken," she said, referencing her Impulse character Henrietta "Henry" Coles. "I just like to switch it up 'cause I get pretty bored."

Maddie Hasson comes out as bisexual: 'I'm Bi and proud'

The Chinese law recognizes same-sex couples but legal sanctions have not been accorded to gay marriages. However, under XI Jinping the LGBTQ community is increasingly feeling the heat. WION brings you a report.

Same sex marriages are not recognized under Chinese law

<p>Days after coming out as a transgender, actor Elliot Page is expressing gratitude to fans and supports for their love.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Your love and support has been the greatest gift," Page wrote in a post on Sunday. "Stay safe. Be there for each other. If you are able, support @transanta and @translifeline See you in 2021, Xoxo Elliot"</p>

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<p>Page's 'Juno' co-star Jennifer Garner commented on the post, writing, "Major, huge love to you, Elliot"</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Page had opened up on social media and said he identifies himself as non-binary and transgender.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"I feel lucky to be writing this. To be here. To have arrived at this place in my life," he wrote. "I feel overwhelming gratitude for the incredible people who have supported me along this journey. I can't begin to express how remarkable it feels to finally love who I am enough to pursue my authentic self. I've been endlessly inspired by so many in the trans community."</p>

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<p>Page's wife Emma Portner has said that she is proud of him for coming out as a transgender.&nbsp;</p>


Days after coming out as a transgender, actor Elliot Page is expressing gratitude to fans and supports for their love. "From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Your love and support has been the greatest gift," Page wrote in a post on Sunday.

Days after coming out as a transgender, actor Elliot Page is expressing gratitude to fans and supports for their love. "From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Your love and support has been the greatest gift," Page wrote in a post on Sunday. "Stay safe. Be there for each other. If you are able, support @transanta and @translifeline See you in 2021, Xoxo Elliot" View this post on Instagram A post shared by @elliotpage × Page's 'Juno' co-star Jennifer Garner commented on the post, writing, "Major, huge love to you, Elliot" Earlier this month, Page had opened up on social media and said he identifies himself as non-binary and transgender. "I feel lucky to be writing this. To be here. To have arrived at this place in my life," he wrote. "I feel overwhelming gratitude for the incredible people who have supported me along this journey. I can't begin to express how remarkable it feels to finally love who I am enough to pursue my authentic self. I've been endlessly inspired by so many in the trans community." View this post on Instagram A post shared by @elliotpage × Page's wife Emma Portner has said that she is proud of him for coming out as a transgender.

Elliot Page thanks fans for support after coming out as transgender

<p>Over 370 religious and spiritual leaders from across the world have come together to demand a global ban on controversial conversion therapy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We recognise that certain religious teachings have, throughout the ages, been misused to cause deep pain and offence to those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex," said the Global Interfaith Commission in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-lgbtq-activists-vs-hardliners-in-turkey-pride-celebrations-expose-fault-lines-311175/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"This must change."</p>

<p>The pledge that was based on LGBT+ Lives initiative was signed by religious and spiritual leaders from over 35 countries "to affirm the sanctity of life and dignity of all".</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-lgbt-lawmaker-spotted-with-semi-naked-man-on-video-meeting-348046">Anti-LGBT lawmaker spotted with semi-naked man on video meeting</a></strong></p>

<p>It also asked countries to end criminalisation of people on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity and violence against the LGBTQ people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Archbishop Emeritus and Nobel Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu; Rabbi Mel Gottlieb, the head of the Academy for Jewish Religion, California; the Rev. John Dorhauer, the general minister and head of the United Church of Christ, were some of the prominent signatories of the declaration, as reported by The New York Times.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Conversion therapy is a controversial practice that is done to alter an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity, and sometimes include methods like institutionalisation, castration and electroshock therapy.</p>

<p>It has already been condemned by the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association.&nbsp;</p>


Over 370 religious and spiritual leaders from across the world have come together to demand a global ban on controversial conversion therapy. "We recognise that certain religious teachings have, throughout the ages, been misused to cause deep pain and offence to those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex," said the Global Interfaith Commission in a statement.

Over 370 religious and spiritual leaders from across the world have come together to demand a global ban on controversial conversion therapy. "We recognise that certain religious teachings have, throughout the ages, been misused to cause deep pain and offence to those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex," said the Global Interfaith Commission in a statement. Watch | "This must change." The pledge that was based on LGBT+ Lives initiative was signed by religious and spiritual leaders from over 35 countries "to affirm the sanctity of life and dignity of all". Also read | Anti-LGBT lawmaker spotted with semi-naked man on video meeting It also asked countries to end criminalisation of people on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity and violence against the LGBTQ people. Archbishop Emeritus and Nobel Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu; Rabbi Mel Gottlieb, the head of the Academy for Jewish Religion, California; the Rev. John Dorhauer, the general minister and head of the United Church of Christ, were some of the prominent signatories of the declaration, as reported by The New York Times. Conversion therapy is a controversial practice that is done to alter an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity, and sometimes include methods like institutionalisation, castration and electroshock therapy. It has already been condemned by the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association.

In a bid to affirm dignity of LGBTQ, over 370 religious leaders demand end to conversion therapy

<p>Britain announced Monday that it would loosen restrictions on blood donation by gay and bisexual men beginning next year, a shift in policy called “landmark” by the government and hailed by activists who have long fought rules they described as discriminatory.</p>

<p>The change will take effect next summer after the recommendations of a health committee that said a blanket ban on sexually active gay or bisexual men donating blood should be lifted. The government accepted these recommendations, saying that the changes would not affect the safety of the blood supply.</p>

<p>“This landmark change to blood donation is safe and it will allow many more people, who have previously been excluded by donor selection criteria, to take the opportunity to help save lives,” Britain’s health secretary, Matt Hancock, said in a statement Monday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-variant-of-coronavirus-identified-in-uk-london-in-tier-3-lockdown-349785" hreflang="en">New variant of coronavirus identified in UK; London in Tier 3 lockdown</a></strong></p>

<p>The current rules stipulate that “all men must wait three months after having oral or anal sex with another man before donating.”</p>

<p>A statement released Monday by the National Health Service removes the three-month barrier and says that gay and bisexual men who have had the same sexual partner for more than three months will be allowed to donate if there is no known exposure to a sexually transmitted infection and they are not using drugs to stop the spread of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.</p>

<p>Britain joins a growing list of countries — France, Italy and Spain — that have relaxed rules on blood donations for gay or bisexual men. The restrictions were largely introduced in the 1980s during the AIDS epidemic, when global authorities feared spreading HIV through the blood supply.</p>

<p>Since then, however, new HIV infections have become rarer in Western countries, and screening has vastly improved.</p>

<p>The United States and Australia still require men who have sex with other men to wait three months after having sex before donating blood. Both announced changes to their rules in April, after thousands of community blood drives were canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, and global blood supplies plummeted.</p>

<p>Medical professionals, however, have said the changes did not go far enough, with a group of more than 500 U.S. doctors, researchers and public health specialists signing a letter calling on authorities to eliminate the constraints.</p>


Britain announced Monday that it would loosen restrictions on blood donation by gay and bisexual men beginning next year, a shift in policy called “landmark” by the government and hailed by activists who have long fought rules they described as discriminatory.

Britain announced Monday that it would loosen restrictions on blood donation by gay and bisexual men beginning next year, a shift in policy called “landmark” by the government and hailed by activists who have long fought rules they described as discriminatory. The change will take effect next summer after the recommendations of a health committee that said a blanket ban on sexually active gay or bisexual men donating blood should be lifted. The government accepted these recommendations, saying that the changes would not affect the safety of the blood supply. “This landmark change to blood donation is safe and it will allow many more people, who have previously been excluded by donor selection criteria, to take the opportunity to help save lives,” Britain’s health secretary, Matt Hancock, said in a statement Monday. Also read| New variant of coronavirus identified in UK; London in Tier 3 lockdown The current rules stipulate that “all men must wait three months after having oral or anal sex with another man before donating.” A statement released Monday by the National Health Service removes the three-month barrier and says that gay and bisexual men who have had the same sexual partner for more than three months will be allowed to donate if there is no known exposure to a sexually transmitted infection and they are not using drugs to stop the spread of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Britain joins a growing list of countries — France, Italy and Spain — that have relaxed rules on blood donations for gay or bisexual men. The restrictions were largely introduced in the 1980s during the AIDS epidemic, when global authorities feared spreading HIV through the blood supply. Since then, however, new HIV infections have become rarer in Western countries, and screening has vastly improved. The United States and Australia still require men who have sex with other men to wait three months after having sex before donating blood. Both announced changes to their rules in April, after thousands of community blood drives were canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, and global blood supplies plummeted. Medical professionals, however, have said the changes did not go far enough, with a group of more than 500 U.S. doctors, researchers and public health specialists signing a letter calling on authorities to eliminate the constraints.

UK to ease rules on blood donations by gay and bisexual men

<p>US lawmaker Tulsi Gabbard on Thursday introduced legislation that would stop the federal funding of schools that allow transgender girls and women and non-binary people to participate on sports teams consistent with their gender identities.</p>

<p>Gabbard along with Republican Congressman Markwayne Mullin introduced the "Protect Women’s Sports Act" at the House of Representatives that was harshly criticised by transgender activists who described it as "transphobic".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hinduphobia-is-very-real-ive-experienced-in-each-of-my-campaigns-tulsi-gabbard-284619">Hinduphobia is very real, I've experienced in each of my campaigns: Tulsi Gabbard</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Both the lawmakers said in a statement that the bill seeks to "protect the sex-based intention of Title IX protections by reaffirming the biological sex-based distinctions between men and women in athletics."</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tulsi-gabbard-sues-hillary-clinton-for-defamation-seeks-50-mn-over-russian-asset-comment-276125">Tulsi Gabbard sues Hillary Clinton for defamation, seeks $50 mn over 'Russian asset' comment</a></strong></p>

<p>Title IX protects people from discrimination based on sex in educational institutions that receive federal funding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new act would bar schools from getting such funds if they allow "a person whose biological sex at birth is male to participate in an athletic program or activity that is designated for women or girls."</p>

<p>Gabbard, who earlier claimed she supported LGBTQ rights, said that bill wants to correct the "original intent" of Title IX which was to provide equal opportunities to women and girls, but was based on "biological distinction".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It led to a generational shift that impacted countless women, creating life-changing opportunities for girls and women that never existed before," she said.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
But, she added that "Title IX is being weakened by some states who are misinterpreting Title IX, creating uncertainty, undue hardship and lost opportunities for female athletes."</p>

<p>"It is critical that the legacy of Title IX continues to ensure women and girls in sports have the opportunity to compete and excel on a level playing field."&nbsp;</p>


US lawmaker Tulsi Gabbard on Thursday introduced legislation that would stop the federal funding of schools that allow transgender girls and women and non-binary people to participate on sports teams consistent with their gender identities.

US lawmaker Tulsi Gabbard on Thursday introduced legislation that would stop the federal funding of schools that allow transgender girls and women and non-binary people to participate on sports teams consistent with their gender identities. Gabbard along with Republican Congressman Markwayne Mullin introduced the "Protect Women’s Sports Act" at the House of Representatives that was harshly criticised by transgender activists who described it as "transphobic". Also read | Hinduphobia is very real, I've experienced in each of my campaigns: Tulsi Gabbard Both the lawmakers said in a statement that the bill seeks to "protect the sex-based intention of Title IX protections by reaffirming the biological sex-based distinctions between men and women in athletics." Also read | Tulsi Gabbard sues Hillary Clinton for defamation, seeks $50 mn over 'Russian asset' comment Title IX protects people from discrimination based on sex in educational institutions that receive federal funding. The new act would bar schools from getting such funds if they allow "a person whose biological sex at birth is male to participate in an athletic program or activity that is designated for women or girls." Gabbard, who earlier claimed she supported LGBTQ rights, said that bill wants to correct the "original intent" of Title IX which was to provide equal opportunities to women and girls, but was based on "biological distinction". "It led to a generational shift that impacted countless women, creating life-changing opportunities for girls and women that never existed before," she said. But, she added that "Title IX is being weakened by some states who are misinterpreting Title IX, creating uncertainty, undue hardship and lost opportunities for female athletes." "It is critical that the legacy of Title IX continues to ensure women and girls in sports have the opportunity to compete and excel on a level playing field."

Tulsi Gabbard introduces legislation to bar transgenders' participation in women sports

<p>China has launched the initiative of capturing the country's&nbsp;demographic changes for the first time in over a decade. The LGBTQ community has used this opportunity to come out of the shadows and officially register themselves as a 'couple', instead of just 'roommates'.</p>

<p>More than seven million workers have started conducting a door-to-door search to measure the changes in the population of nearly 1.4 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the survey started, the LGBTQ community activists urged the community to come forward and mark their residency relationship as 'couple' rather than 'roommates'. The Guangzhou-based LGBTQ+ Rights Advocacy China has started a campaign to spread awareness about this by using the tag line, "they are not my roommate, they are my partner".</p>

<p>"Usually the LGBTQ+ community in China is invisible in terms of policy making and social life. We hope that through this the government will consider the needs of the LGBTQ+ community as a part of the Chinese population when it makes policies in the future," said Peng Yanhui, director of the group leading the effort. "Through the census, this community can be made visible."</p>

<p>This movement began when a couple marked 'other' under the head of 'relationship to the head of the household', and then wrote 'couple' in the given empty space. "It took a lot of courage and I hope others can also speak out proudly rather than hide," said Ah Qiang, an LGBTQ activist.</p>

<p><strong>Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-army-to-compensate-lgbtq-community-for-years-of-discrimination-345757">German army to compensate LGBTQ community for years of discrimination</a></strong></p>

<p>The LGBTQ community is hoping this will give them a chance to openly admit their relationship, instead of having to hide behind the shadows due to the fear of facing discrimination. China's LGBTQ community often faces hardship, especially in finding a house to rent, if they openly admit being gay — an issue which has been raised by activists in the past too.</p>

<p>However, things seem to be changing for the community now, as more and more people are opening up to the idea of same-sex marriage and relationships and, excluding a certain population, many locals have now started 'accepting' the LGBTQ community.</p>

<p><strong>Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moment-of-pride-two-same-sex-couples-to-get-married-in-taiwanese-military-mass-wedding-338716">Moment of pride: Two same-sex couples to get married in Taiwanese military mass wedding</a></strong></p>

<p>This campaign has come as a sigh of relief for the people who have wanted to gain recognition but were unable to. The tagline of 'not just a roommate' and 'they are not my roommate, they are my partner' have helped these couples acknowledge their relationship openly. The movement has also gained traction on social media with many commenting about how they would be doing the same in this year's census survey.</p>


China has launched the initiative of capturing the country's demographic changes for the first time in over a decade. The LGBTQ community has used this opportunity to come out of the shadows and officially register themselves as a 'couple', instead of just 'roommates'.

China has launched the initiative of capturing the country's demographic changes for the first time in over a decade. The LGBTQ community has used this opportunity to come out of the shadows and officially register themselves as a 'couple', instead of just 'roommates'. More than seven million workers have started conducting a door-to-door search to measure the changes in the population of nearly 1.4 billion. When the survey started, the LGBTQ community activists urged the community to come forward and mark their residency relationship as 'couple' rather than 'roommates'. The Guangzhou-based LGBTQ+ Rights Advocacy China has started a campaign to spread awareness about this by using the tag line, "they are not my roommate, they are my partner". "Usually the LGBTQ+ community in China is invisible in terms of policy making and social life. We hope that through this the government will consider the needs of the LGBTQ+ community as a part of the Chinese population when it makes policies in the future," said Peng Yanhui, director of the group leading the effort. "Through the census, this community can be made visible." This movement began when a couple marked 'other' under the head of 'relationship to the head of the household', and then wrote 'couple' in the given empty space. "It took a lot of courage and I hope others can also speak out proudly rather than hide," said Ah Qiang, an LGBTQ activist. Also read| German army to compensate LGBTQ community for years of discrimination The LGBTQ community is hoping this will give them a chance to openly admit their relationship, instead of having to hide behind the shadows due to the fear of facing discrimination. China's LGBTQ community often faces hardship, especially in finding a house to rent, if they openly admit being gay — an issue which has been raised by activists in the past too. However, things seem to be changing for the community now, as more and more people are opening up to the idea of same-sex marriage and relationships and, excluding a certain population, many locals have now started 'accepting' the LGBTQ community. Also read| Moment of pride: Two same-sex couples to get married in Taiwanese military mass wedding This campaign has come as a sigh of relief for the people who have wanted to gain recognition but were unable to. The tagline of 'not just a roommate' and 'they are not my roommate, they are my partner' have helped these couples acknowledge their relationship openly. The movement has also gained traction on social media with many commenting about how they would be doing the same in this year's census survey.

Not just roommates: China's LGBTQ couples come out of shadows in national census

<p>Assam has become the first Indian state to add "transgender" as an identity category for people seeking civil service jobs, allowing 42 trans candidates to apply to sit an entry exam, an official and a campaigner said on Friday.</p>

<p>The application form for the exam, which recruits for state roles such as administrative officials, magistrates, and police officers, now lets applicants tick male, female or transgender, a move welcomed by local trans rights advocates.</p>

<p>"Forty-two (applicants) is not a small number... It is a historic decision. Assam has become the first state in India to have included us," said Swati Bidhan Baruah of the Assam Transgender Welfare Board, which sought the change.</p>

<p>Calling the decision a "big victory", she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation her group had also urged Assam's state government to reserve a quota of civil service jobs for trans candidates.</p>

<p>"We are confident our demand will be met soon," she said.</p>

<p>Pallab Bhattacharya, chairman of the Assam Public Service Commission, which conducts the test, said about 76,000 candidates had applied to sit this year's examination, which will be held in December.</p>

<p>In April, India's federal government instructed all ministries and departments to modify forms for recruitment tests to include "transgender" as a separate category to conform with a trans rights law passed last year.</p>

<p>The law set out to improve the lives of about two million trans-Indians, who face discrimination in the largely conservative nation and mostly survive through begging, performing at weddings, or selling sex.</p>

<p>Still, campaigners have expressed concern about the limits on self-determining their gender, with the law stating they must obtain an identity certificate from a district magistrate to be declared transgender.</p>

<p>They also have to give proof of having undergone sex reassignment surgery if they then want to be listed as male or female.</p>

<p>India's Supreme Court ruled in 2014 that trans people had equal rights but they are still often rejected by their families and denied jobs, education and healthcare.</p>

<p>Assam, which lies in northeast India, has a trans population of about 11,500, according to the last census of 2011.</p>

<p>One trans woman who filled out the state application form said sitting the entry examination could change her life, adding that she hoped to join the local police force.</p>

<p>"It's a matter of pride and self respect to have a category where we can boldly mention ourselves as transgender," the 24-year-old said, asking not to give her name.</p>

<p>"I want to change the system and do away with discrimination faced by the transgender community."</p>


Assam has become the first Indian state to add "transgender" as an identity category for people seeking civil service jobs, allowing 42 trans candidates to apply to sit an entry exam, an official and a campaigner said on Friday.

Assam has become the first Indian state to add "transgender" as an identity category for people seeking civil service jobs, allowing 42 trans candidates to apply to sit an entry exam, an official and a campaigner said on Friday. The application form for the exam, which recruits for state roles such as administrative officials, magistrates, and police officers, now lets applicants tick male, female or transgender, a move welcomed by local trans rights advocates. "Forty-two (applicants) is not a small number... It is a historic decision. Assam has become the first state in India to have included us," said Swati Bidhan Baruah of the Assam Transgender Welfare Board, which sought the change. Calling the decision a "big victory", she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation her group had also urged Assam's state government to reserve a quota of civil service jobs for trans candidates. "We are confident our demand will be met soon," she said. Pallab Bhattacharya, chairman of the Assam Public Service Commission, which conducts the test, said about 76,000 candidates had applied to sit this year's examination, which will be held in December. In April, India's federal government instructed all ministries and departments to modify forms for recruitment tests to include "transgender" as a separate category to conform with a trans rights law passed last year. The law set out to improve the lives of about two million trans-Indians, who face discrimination in the largely conservative nation and mostly survive through begging, performing at weddings, or selling sex. Still, campaigners have expressed concern about the limits on self-determining their gender, with the law stating they must obtain an identity certificate from a district magistrate to be declared transgender. They also have to give proof of having undergone sex reassignment surgery if they then want to be listed as male or female. India's Supreme Court ruled in 2014 that trans people had equal rights but they are still often rejected by their families and denied jobs, education and healthcare. Assam, which lies in northeast India, has a trans population of about 11,500, according to the last census of 2011. One trans woman who filled out the state application form said sitting the entry examination could change her life, adding that she hoped to join the local police force. "It's a matter of pride and self respect to have a category where we can boldly mention ourselves as transgender," the 24-year-old said, asking not to give her name. "I want to change the system and do away with discrimination faced by the transgender community."

'Matter of pride': Indian state lets transgender to register for civil services exam

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