The Texas attorney general’s remark that gender-affirming surgeries among minors are cases of "child abuse" has triggered an outrage among trans rights groups who see it as an attack on transgender children.

In a legal opinion released this week, Ken Paxton argued that medical care such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and gender-affirming surgeries "must be halted."

He said the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) "has a responsibility to act accordingly."

"There is no doubt that these procedures are "abuse" under Texas law and thus must be halted," Paxton said in a statement.

"I'll do everything I can to protect against those who take advantage of and harm young Texans," he said.

In response to the opinion, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed DFPS Commissioner Jaime Masters "to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of any reported instances of these abusive procedures in the State of Texas."

It's unclear how much legal standing the order and opinion will have, reported CNN.

The views expressed by the highest officials in Texas were met with condemnation by the trans rights group, who said that "deliberately attacking children and making life harder for them is shocking and un-American."

"Every major medical association in the country supports healthcare for transgender youth, but Republican Gov. Abbott is ignoring experts on children's issues to cruelly and viciously target transgender young people," CEO and president of the LGBTQ non-profit GLAAD, Sarah Kate Ellis, said in a statement.

Texas government has increasingly taken socially conservative stands in recent years, even as&nbsp;its population's political leanings have drifted away from being a Republican state.

The actions come after a series of anti-trans bills that failed to materialise in recent years, some of which would have included preventing transgender Texans from using bathrooms according to their gender identity rather than their biological sex in government buildings and public schools and universities.

According to a study from the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, the state has&nbsp;the second highest number of trans people&nbsp;in the US, with some 125,350 adults in Texas identifying as transgender.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Texas attorney general’s remark that gender-affirming surgeries among minors are cases of "child abuse" has triggered an outrage among trans rights groups who see it as an attack on transgender children.

The Texas attorney general’s remark that gender-affirming surgeries among minors are cases of "child abuse" has triggered an outrage among trans rights groups who see it as an attack on transgender children. In a legal opinion released this week, Ken Paxton argued that medical care such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and gender-affirming surgeries "must be halted." He said the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) "has a responsibility to act accordingly." "There is no doubt that these procedures are "abuse" under Texas law and thus must be halted," Paxton said in a statement. "I'll do everything I can to protect against those who take advantage of and harm young Texans," he said. In response to the opinion, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed DFPS Commissioner Jaime Masters "to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of any reported instances of these abusive procedures in the State of Texas." It's unclear how much legal standing the order and opinion will have, reported CNN. The views expressed by the highest officials in Texas were met with condemnation by the trans rights group, who said that "deliberately attacking children and making life harder for them is shocking and un-American." "Every major medical association in the country supports healthcare for transgender youth, but Republican Gov. Abbott is ignoring experts on children's issues to cruelly and viciously target transgender young people," CEO and president of the LGBTQ non-profit GLAAD, Sarah Kate Ellis, said in a statement. Texas government has increasingly taken socially conservative stands in recent years, even as its population's political leanings have drifted away from being a Republican state. The actions come after a series of anti-trans bills that failed to materialise in recent years, some of which would have included preventing transgender Texans from using bathrooms according to their gender identity rather than their biological sex in government buildings and public schools and universities. According to a study from the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, the state has the second highest number of trans people in the US, with some 125,350 adults in Texas identifying as transgender. (With inputs from agencies)

Texas attorney general calls gender-affirming surgeries ‘child abuse’, sparks outrage

The highly anticipated return of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/china-censors-lesbian-plotline-in-american-sitcom-friends-causing-widespread-anger-452795">'Friends'</a>&nbsp;to Chinese streaming platforms soured quickly after fans noticed an LGBTQ plotline was cut from the American sitcom -- and their complaints were censored too.

China's top platforms started streaming the series on Friday, but the back story of a lesbian character was absent from the first season's second episode.

Fans flooded social media with complaints about the removal, with the top-trending hashtag "Friends censored" racking up tens of millions of views on the Twitter-like Weibo platform.

"I compared this episode and found that all the lines referring to Ross's ex-wife Carol being a lesbian were deleted. It's very clearly disjointed," wrote one user, whose post gained more than 177,000 likes.

Foreign films and television programmes that include content authorities consider "sensitive", such as LGBTQ themes, sex, politics and violence, are routinely censored in China.

"Why would there be a need to mention it? Homosexuality doesn't exist here, so it's perfect forever. Everyone's happy living under this government," read another apparently sarcastic comment.

The criticism was also censored on the weekend, and the protest hashtag was replaced by 'Why is friends so popular'&nbsp;on Sunday.

'Friends', which follows a group of six young people in New York, originally ran from 1994 to 2004 in the United States. It also became an international phenomenon, including in China, where it is hugely popular among millennials. Many young Chinese learned English by watching it on DVDs.

The series first ran in China -- uncensored -- on the streaming platform Sohu between 2012 and 2013. Following the popularity of last year's reunion show, the country's streaming giants including Bilibili, Tencent, iQiyi and Youku decided to relaunch a censored version.

In addition to omitting the LGBTQ plotline in season one, sexually suggestive lines have been translated differently in the Chinese subtitles of the relaunched version to remove the innuendo.

The fan furore over 'Friends'&nbsp;was the latest such wave of complaints from Chinese fans.

The original ending of the cult classic American film "Fight Club" was restored in China following online criticism of the censored version, which concluded with a black screen and a coda explaining the police had caught all the criminals.

In 2019, multiple scenes in the film "Bohemian Rhapsody" referencing queer music superstar Freddie Mercury's sexuality were dropped in its China release.

Under President Xi Jinping, Chinese authorities have pushed to purge society and culture of elements they deem unhealthy.

Guidelines released by the top media regulator in 2016 prohibited "vulgar, immoral and unhealthy content" in TV shows such as homosexuality, smoking, extramarital affairs and underage relationships.

The highly anticipated return of 'Friends' to Chinese streaming platforms soured quickly after fans noticed an LGBTQ plotline was cut from the American sitcom -- and their complaints were censored too.

The highly anticipated return of 'Friends' to Chinese streaming platforms soured quickly after fans noticed an LGBTQ plotline was cut from the American sitcom -- and their complaints were censored too. China's top platforms started streaming the series on Friday, but the back story of a lesbian character was absent from the first season's second episode. Fans flooded social media with complaints about the removal, with the top-trending hashtag "Friends censored" racking up tens of millions of views on the Twitter-like Weibo platform. "I compared this episode and found that all the lines referring to Ross's ex-wife Carol being a lesbian were deleted. It's very clearly disjointed," wrote one user, whose post gained more than 177,000 likes. Foreign films and television programmes that include content authorities consider "sensitive", such as LGBTQ themes, sex, politics and violence, are routinely censored in China. "Why would there be a need to mention it? Homosexuality doesn't exist here, so it's perfect forever. Everyone's happy living under this government," read another apparently sarcastic comment. The criticism was also censored on the weekend, and the protest hashtag was replaced by 'Why is friends so popular' on Sunday. 'Friends', which follows a group of six young people in New York, originally ran from 1994 to 2004 in the United States. It also became an international phenomenon, including in China, where it is hugely popular among millennials. Many young Chinese learned English by watching it on DVDs. The series first ran in China -- uncensored -- on the streaming platform Sohu between 2012 and 2013. Following the popularity of last year's reunion show, the country's streaming giants including Bilibili, Tencent, iQiyi and Youku decided to relaunch a censored version. In addition to omitting the LGBTQ plotline in season one, sexually suggestive lines have been translated differently in the Chinese subtitles of the relaunched version to remove the innuendo. The fan furore over 'Friends' was the latest such wave of complaints from Chinese fans. The original ending of the cult classic American film "Fight Club" was restored in China following online criticism of the censored version, which concluded with a black screen and a coda explaining the police had caught all the criminals. In 2019, multiple scenes in the film "Bohemian Rhapsody" referencing queer music superstar Freddie Mercury's sexuality were dropped in its China release. Under President Xi Jinping, Chinese authorities have pushed to purge society and culture of elements they deem unhealthy. Guidelines released by the top media regulator in 2016 prohibited "vulgar, immoral and unhealthy content" in TV shows such as homosexuality, smoking, extramarital affairs and underage relationships.

Fan fury in China after 'Friends' LGBTQ plotline censored

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

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

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

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

The pope has urged the parents to not condemn their children if they are gay. This is said to be the latest outreach to the LGBTQ community.

Pope: Support your children if they are gay, don't condemn them

After watching the trailer of Junglee Films’&nbsp;'Badhaai Do', I was left with many questions. The most obvious: &nbsp;why Badhaai? Junglee had a freak hit in 'Badhaai Ho' in &nbsp;2018. I love that film. Who doesn’t! &nbsp;Wisely its brilliant director Amit Sharma has stayed away from the supposed follow-up.

“Mujhe jo kehna ttha maine keh diya&nbsp;(I said what I had to). Aage baat khichne se koi matlab nahin nikalta(stretching the story makes no sense),” he told me, and I couldn’t agree more.

The congratulatory part of 'Badhaai Do' is that it has no connection with the wonderful 'Badhaai Ho'. So when 'Badhaai Teen' comes along, don’t go expecting to know anything about what happens to Neena &nbsp;Gupta and Gajraj Rao after their belated parenthood.

To my guarded amusement, &nbsp;I find 'Badhaai Do' to be one of those pseudo-liberal films that Ayushmann Khurrana has made a career out of. I wonder how he missed out on this one. Apparently he didn’t have the time as his beefy avatar was busy wooing a transgender in 'Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui'. Khurrana’s loss is Rajkummar Rao’s gain; Rao plays a brawny cop named Shardul &nbsp;Thakur who makes an offer to Sumu Singh(Bhumi Pednekar) that she can’t refuse.

He is gay. She is &nbsp;gay. &nbsp;Agay dekhte jao.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hjxoPh4DM_A" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The laughs in 'Badhaai Do' are so strenuous it feels like the team decided to get fashionably liberal. There are jokes about Pednekar North-Eastern partner(Chum Darang) trying to pass off as cousins(curious disbelieving stares from the supporting cast); there is even a joke about &nbsp;Rao not being able to bear children because “it” is too tiny. Haha.

Rao and Pednekar,both safely straight in real life, &nbsp;get a chance to feel superior by playing homosexual characters. This is the film that the two actors can show to their children when they reach the age of consent and brag about how liberal they are.

If the truth be told there is nothing funny, let alone liberal, &nbsp;about such tragic marriages of convenience. Gay men and straight women trapped in convenient “arranged” marriages are bad enough. Here you want to show two homosexual individuals acting as each other’s beards and you want to generate laughter out of this tragic circumstance.

Last year there was a dreadful film about a relationship between a gay man and a lesbian woman: 'Akele Hum Akele Tum'. At least it didn’t try to raise laughter out of the couple’s mutual deviancy. Here in 'Badhaai Do' seasoned actors like Sheeba Chaddha, Loveleen Mishra and Seema Pahwa join in the "fun". Decency be damned. 
 
(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

After watching the trailer of Junglee Films’ 'Badhaai Do', I was left with many questions. The most obvious: why Badhaai? Junglee had a freak hit in 'Badhaai Ho' in 2018.

After watching the trailer of Junglee Films’ 'Badhaai Do', I was left with many questions. The most obvious: why Badhaai? Junglee had a freak hit in 'Badhaai Ho' in 2018. I love that film. Who doesn’t! Wisely its brilliant director Amit Sharma has stayed away from the supposed follow-up. “Mujhe jo kehna ttha maine keh diya (I said what I had to). Aage baat khichne se koi matlab nahin nikalta(stretching the story makes no sense),” he told me, and I couldn’t agree more. The congratulatory part of 'Badhaai Do' is that it has no connection with the wonderful 'Badhaai Ho'. So when 'Badhaai Teen' comes along, don’t go expecting to know anything about what happens to Neena Gupta and Gajraj Rao after their belated parenthood. To my guarded amusement, I find 'Badhaai Do' to be one of those pseudo-liberal films that Ayushmann Khurrana has made a career out of. I wonder how he missed out on this one. Apparently he didn’t have the time as his beefy avatar was busy wooing a transgender in 'Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui'. Khurrana’s loss is Rajkummar Rao’s gain; Rao plays a brawny cop named Shardul Thakur who makes an offer to Sumu Singh(Bhumi Pednekar) that she can’t refuse. He is gay. She is gay. Agay dekhte jao. The laughs in 'Badhaai Do' are so strenuous it feels like the team decided to get fashionably liberal. There are jokes about Pednekar North-Eastern partner(Chum Darang) trying to pass off as cousins(curious disbelieving stares from the supporting cast); there is even a joke about Rao not being able to bear children because “it” is too tiny. Haha. Rao and Pednekar,both safely straight in real life, get a chance to feel superior by playing homosexual characters. This is the film that the two actors can show to their children when they reach the age of consent and brag about how liberal they are. If the truth be told there is nothing funny, let alone liberal, about such tragic marriages of convenience. Gay men and straight women trapped in convenient “arranged” marriages are bad enough. Here you want to show two homosexual individuals acting as each other’s beards and you want to generate laughter out of this tragic circumstance. Last year there was a dreadful film about a relationship between a gay man and a lesbian woman: 'Akele Hum Akele Tum'. At least it didn’t try to raise laughter out of the couple’s mutual deviancy. Here in 'Badhaai Do' seasoned actors like Sheeba Chaddha, Loveleen Mishra and Seema Pahwa join in the "fun". Decency be damned. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

'Badhaai Do' trailer is hugely problematic. Here's why

Canada has banned conversion therapy, joining a select list of countries that discontinued the discredited treatment that claims to be able to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Canadian government on Friday officially implemented the ban which was passed by the Parliament in December 2021.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement on Twitter on Saturday, saying that the Canadian bill makes “providing, promoting, or advertising conversion therapy” a criminal offence.

“As of today, it’s official: Conversion therapy is banned in Canada. Our government’s legislation has come into force —which means it is now illegal to promote, advertise, benefit from, or subject someone to this hateful and harmful practice. LGBTQ2 rights are human rights,” he said.

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As of today, it’s official: Conversion therapy is banned in Canada. Our government’s legislation has come into force - which means it is now illegal to promote, advertise, benefit from, or subject someone to this hateful and harmful practice. LGBTQ2 rights are human rights.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau/status/1479549337285931012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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“LGBTQ2" is the acronym used by the Canadian government, with the “2” referring to Two-Spirit, “a culturally-specific identity used by some Indigenous people to indicate a person whose gender identity, spiritual identity and/or sexual orientation comprises both male and female spirits,” according to the government’s glossary of terminology.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-introduces-bill-to-outlaw-lgbt-conversion-therapy-401615">New Zealand introduces bill to outlaw LGBT conversion therapy</a>

Under the new law, anyone who looks to subject someone of any age, consenting or not, to so-called conversion therapy could face up to five years in prison.

In addition to this, if someone is found to be promoting, advertising, or profiting from providing the practice, they could face up to two years in prison.

The conversion therapies are based on the premise that sexual orientation can be changed or “cured”. It's often performed by religious leaders, but licensed clinicians are also engaged in the practice.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-ban-gay-conversion-therapy-after-massive-survey-148613">UK to ban gay 'conversion therapy' after massive survey</a>

Among the practices followed in the conversion include talk and aversion therapy, as well as medical or drug-induced treatments.

Apart from Canada, there are only a handful of countries that have banned conversion therapies, they are: Brazil, Ecuador, Germany and Malta have an outright ban on the practice.

Some countries have banned the practice indirectly, for example, Argentina, Uruguay, Samoa, Fiji and Naura, whereas US, Australia and Spain have outlawed it in some areas.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Canada has banned conversion therapy, joining a select list of countries that discontinued the discredited treatment that claims to be able to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity.

Canada has banned conversion therapy, joining a select list of countries that discontinued the discredited treatment that claims to be able to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. The Canadian government on Friday officially implemented the ban which was passed by the Parliament in December 2021. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement on Twitter on Saturday, saying that the Canadian bill makes “providing, promoting, or advertising conversion therapy” a criminal offence. “As of today, it’s official: Conversion therapy is banned in Canada. Our government’s legislation has come into force —which means it is now illegal to promote, advertise, benefit from, or subject someone to this hateful and harmful practice. LGBTQ2 rights are human rights,” he said. As of today, it’s official: Conversion therapy is banned in Canada. Our government’s legislation has come into force - which means it is now illegal to promote, advertise, benefit from, or subject someone to this hateful and harmful practice. LGBTQ2 rights are human rights. — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 7, 2022 × “LGBTQ2" is the acronym used by the Canadian government, with the “2” referring to Two-Spirit, “a culturally-specific identity used by some Indigenous people to indicate a person whose gender identity, spiritual identity and/or sexual orientation comprises both male and female spirits,” according to the government’s glossary of terminology. Also read | New Zealand introduces bill to outlaw LGBT conversion therapy Under the new law, anyone who looks to subject someone of any age, consenting or not, to so-called conversion therapy could face up to five years in prison. In addition to this, if someone is found to be promoting, advertising, or profiting from providing the practice, they could face up to two years in prison. The conversion therapies are based on the premise that sexual orientation can be changed or “cured”. It's often performed by religious leaders, but licensed clinicians are also engaged in the practice. Also read | UK to ban gay 'conversion therapy' after massive survey Among the practices followed in the conversion include talk and aversion therapy, as well as medical or drug-induced treatments. Apart from Canada, there are only a handful of countries that have banned conversion therapies, they are: Brazil, Ecuador, Germany and Malta have an outright ban on the practice. Some countries have banned the practice indirectly, for example, Argentina, Uruguay, Samoa, Fiji and Naura, whereas US, Australia and Spain have outlawed it in some areas. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada officially bans LGBT conversion therapy, makes it a punishable offence

Upholding a Supreme Court ruling, Israel has decided to allow same-sex couples and single men from becoming parents through surrogacy within the country.

The court in July last year had declared void some parts of a surrogacy law that prevented gay couples from having children through a surrogate in Israel.

That move came after the court ruled in 2020 that the law, which had expanded access to single women but excluded gay couples, “disproportionately harmed the right to equality and the right to parenthood” and was unlawful.&nbsp;

Speaking at a news conference on Tuesday, health minister Nitzan Horowitz called it a “historic day for the LGBTQ struggle in Israel,” saying that the move will enable “future fathers, gay couples and essentially every person in Israel equal access to surrogacy in Israel.”

Horowitz, who is the second openly gay Knesset member, said, “This is an exciting day for me, as a gay minister who is well aware of the exclusion and discrimination against us over the years. It’s my personal struggle too.”

“Today we put an end to injustice and discrimination. Everyone has the right to parenthood,” he said. He stressed that transgender people were also included in the relaxed rules.

The new rules will come into effect on January 11.

With the development, the minister said, Israel would join the “small group of countries that have ended discrimination against LGBT people to have the right to parenthood.”

“We have become one of the most advanced countries in the world in this area,” he added.

In Israel, surrogacy is currently open to heterosexual married couples and to single women who have a genetic connection to the baby.

(With inputs from agencies)

Upholding a Supreme Court ruling, Israel has decided to allow same-sex couples and single men from becoming parents through surrogacy within the country. The court in July last year had declared void some parts of a surrogacy law that prevented gay couples from having children through a surrogate in Israel.

Upholding a Supreme Court ruling, Israel has decided to allow same-sex couples and single men from becoming parents through surrogacy within the country. The court in July last year had declared void some parts of a surrogacy law that prevented gay couples from having children through a surrogate in Israel. That move came after the court ruled in 2020 that the law, which had expanded access to single women but excluded gay couples, “disproportionately harmed the right to equality and the right to parenthood” and was unlawful. Speaking at a news conference on Tuesday, health minister Nitzan Horowitz called it a “historic day for the LGBTQ struggle in Israel,” saying that the move will enable “future fathers, gay couples and essentially every person in Israel equal access to surrogacy in Israel.” Horowitz, who is the second openly gay Knesset member, said, “This is an exciting day for me, as a gay minister who is well aware of the exclusion and discrimination against us over the years. It’s my personal struggle too.” “Today we put an end to injustice and discrimination. Everyone has the right to parenthood,” he said. He stressed that transgender people were also included in the relaxed rules. The new rules will come into effect on January 11. With the development, the minister said, Israel would join the “small group of countries that have ended discrimination against LGBT people to have the right to parenthood.” “We have become one of the most advanced countries in the world in this area,” he added. In Israel, surrogacy is currently open to heterosexual married couples and to single women who have a genetic connection to the baby. (With inputs from agencies)

'Historic day’: Same-sex couples, single men can now opt for surrogacy from next week in Israel

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

As the first group of LGBTQ Afghans have finally been able to flee the country and reach the UK, the pressure mounts on the government to speed up the evacuation of the community that has been living in fear.

The UK foreign secretary, Liz Truss, in a statement said, "We played a key role getting these people out and will continue to do all we can to help at-risk Afghans leave the country." She further added that Britain would defend “the right of all people to be themselves and love who they want”.

One among the group of 29, who have now safely reached the UK, which speaking to BBC said that he felt “like a human being” for the first time in his life. “Everything collapsed after the fall of Kabul. I was very depressed. I was counting my days to die.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/diversity-spaces-germany-reserves-parking-spots-for-lgbt-community-and-migrants-417550">Also read |&nbsp;'Diversity spaces': Germany reserves parking spots for LGBT community and migrants</a>

A Taliban judge had previously announced that there were two punishments for the people of LGBTQ community, which is, stoning or being crushed under a wall.&nbsp;

During the first regime of the Taliban from 1996 to 2001, members of the LGBT community were reportedly stoned to death and brutally tortured before being beaten to death.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/these-countries-allow-non-binary-gender-on-passports-like-in-us-424698">Also read |&nbsp;These countries allow non-binary gender on passports like in US</a>

No details were given on how the group was able to leave Afghanistan. However, this hints towards a possible diplomatic agreement.&nbsp;

Gianluca Di Caro, chief executive of the British and Irish Boxing Authority (Biba) has said that the organisation had 250 boxers and their families trapped in Afghanistan. A significant proportion of the group is LGBTQ. While speaking to Observer, he emphasised on the need to get them out quickly. "We’ve already had female boxers who have been assaulted by the Taliban. In some cases Taliban have gone into some of the girls’ houses.”

Officials have revealed that the foreign secretary, along with British LGBTQ&nbsp;group Stonewall and Canadian organisation Rainbow Railroad, have been working hard&nbsp;to ensure the Afghan LGBTQ group is safe.&nbsp;

Stonewall’s chief executive,&nbsp;Nancy Kelley&nbsp;said that her organisation had been campaigning to bring&nbsp; Afghans to the UK for a few months. She said that she would continue to push for international support.

As the first group of LGBTQ Afghans have finally been able to flee the country and reach the UK, the pressure mounts on the government to speed up the evacuation of the community that has been living in fear.

As the first group of LGBTQ Afghans have finally been able to flee the country and reach the UK, the pressure mounts on the government to speed up the evacuation of the community that has been living in fear. The UK foreign secretary, Liz Truss, in a statement said, "We played a key role getting these people out and will continue to do all we can to help at-risk Afghans leave the country." She further added that Britain would defend “the right of all people to be themselves and love who they want”. One among the group of 29, who have now safely reached the UK, which speaking to BBC said that he felt “like a human being” for the first time in his life. “Everything collapsed after the fall of Kabul. I was very depressed. I was counting my days to die.” Also read | 'Diversity spaces': Germany reserves parking spots for LGBT community and migrants A Taliban judge had previously announced that there were two punishments for the people of LGBTQ community, which is, stoning or being crushed under a wall. During the first regime of the Taliban from 1996 to 2001, members of the LGBT community were reportedly stoned to death and brutally tortured before being beaten to death. Also read | These countries allow non-binary gender on passports like in US No details were given on how the group was able to leave Afghanistan. However, this hints towards a possible diplomatic agreement. Gianluca Di Caro, chief executive of the British and Irish Boxing Authority (Biba) has said that the organisation had 250 boxers and their families trapped in Afghanistan. A significant proportion of the group is LGBTQ. While speaking to Observer, he emphasised on the need to get them out quickly. "We’ve already had female boxers who have been assaulted by the Taliban. In some cases Taliban have gone into some of the girls’ houses.” Officials have revealed that the foreign secretary, along with British LGBTQ group Stonewall and Canadian organisation Rainbow Railroad, have been working hard to ensure the Afghan LGBTQ group is safe. Stonewall’s chief executive, Nancy Kelley said that her organisation had been campaigning to bring Afghans to the UK for a few months. She said that she would continue to push for international support.

Clock ticking for LGBTQ Afghans hiding from Taliban, warn charities

Karyn Bello, a mother based in Staten Island, &nbsp;is developing a lingerie brand meant specially for transgender women.&nbsp; 
 
The design is set to solve issues surrounding 'tucking' which she said can cause urinary tract infections. 
 
Bello's daughter Lily came out as transgender in 2014. Inspired by her daughter, Bello is designing a clothing line called Zhe, a reference to the gender-neutral pronoun, to help transgender people feel more comfortable in their clothes. 
 
“They’re meant to help trans women navigate through the world and through their clothes comfortably without having to worry,” Bello told a website. “They’re much more accessible and safe for them to be wearing.” 
 
The design is aimed at helping transgender women avoid harmful "tucking" practices that could damage the genitals or urethra over the long term. 
 
“[These methods] are bad for your urethra — you get UTIs easily," Bello said. "They’re just bad for your health. I was coming at it from a mom’s perspective. I want you to be healthy and take care of yourself, too."&nbsp; 
 
The underwear is meant to achieve the same effect as tucking without the health risks. Bello says shopping for her daughter inspired her to create the underwear line Zhe.&nbsp; 
 
“When I was shopping with Lily, I realized that there was a definite need in the market for women like her,” she said. 
“There were a lot of things to consider,” she added. “I had to think about what materials to use, how I could make it something that would work for the community. I was talking to trans women about what would benefit and how I could make all of the DIY things that they’re using easier." 
 
Bello is not just designing underwear but also has plans to work on swimwear and activewear products in the near future.&nbsp;

Karyn Bello, a mother based in Staten Island, is developing a lingerie brand meant specially for transgender women. The design is set to solve issues surrounding 'tucking' which she said can cause urinary tract infections.

Karyn Bello, a mother based in Staten Island, is developing a lingerie brand meant specially for transgender women. The design is set to solve issues surrounding 'tucking' which she said can cause urinary tract infections. Bello's daughter Lily came out as transgender in 2014. Inspired by her daughter, Bello is designing a clothing line called Zhe, a reference to the gender-neutral pronoun, to help transgender people feel more comfortable in their clothes. “They’re meant to help trans women navigate through the world and through their clothes comfortably without having to worry,” Bello told a website. “They’re much more accessible and safe for them to be wearing.” The design is aimed at helping transgender women avoid harmful "tucking" practices that could damage the genitals or urethra over the long term. “[These methods] are bad for your urethra — you get UTIs easily," Bello said. "They’re just bad for your health. I was coming at it from a mom’s perspective. I want you to be healthy and take care of yourself, too." The underwear is meant to achieve the same effect as tucking without the health risks. Bello says shopping for her daughter inspired her to create the underwear line Zhe. “When I was shopping with Lily, I realized that there was a definite need in the market for women like her,” she said. “There were a lot of things to consider,” she added. “I had to think about what materials to use, how I could make it something that would work for the community. I was talking to trans women about what would benefit and how I could make all of the DIY things that they’re using easier." Bello is not just designing underwear but also has plans to work on swimwear and activewear products in the near future.

This mom is designing special underwear for transgender women like her daughter

Superman to Captain America: DC, Marvel and their new LGBTQ superheroes

A prominent Malaysian transgender entrepreneur accused of insulting Islam in the Muslim majority country said Wednesday she was "safe, happy and free" in Australia.

Nur Sajat, a millionaire who runs a cosmetics business, said officials promised to help her settle in the country.

"Australia chose me&nbsp;due to my case. So I did not apply (for asylum) to any other country," she told AFP in a video interview from an undisclosed location.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-claim-of-executive-privilege-in-the-jan-6-inquiry-explained-422321">Trump’s claim of executive privilege in the Jan. 6. inquiry, explained</a>

"I was intimidated and abused (in Malaysia). The Australian government realised this," she said.

Sajat's case has highlighted concerns about the worsening climate for LGBT people in Muslim-majority Malaysia, where officials are increasingly cracking down against the community and seeking to toughen related laws.

She was charged earlier this year after attending a 2018 religious event dressed in women's clothes, and faces up to three years in jail or a fine if convicted.

She is also facing separate charges of obstructing and threatening a public servant, which she denies.

The entrepreneur said Australian officials have kept in constant communication with her, but did not reveal how she travelled to the country from Thailand early this month.

Canberra's department of home affairs said it does not comment on individual cases because of privacy concerns.

The 36-year-old said she fled to Thailand earlier this year because she "was abused and treated inhumanely" by religious officials in Malaysia.

She was arrested by Thai authorities in September over an invalid passport and later released on bail.

"The decision to run away was my last decision for me, because I did not feel happiness. (I was) not free," she said.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-approves-west-bank-residency-for-4000-undocumented-palestinians-422315">&nbsp;Israel approves West Bank residency for 4,000 undocumented Palestinians</a>

"There is freedom and gender equality in Australia," Sajat added.

While she did not reveal the conditions of her stay -- or her exact location in Sydney -- she did confirm she was in coronavirus quarantine.

Sajat said she would continue working in Australia, with a focus on gold and cosmetics.

"I want to rebuild my business empire here," she said.

Sajat also said she will not return to Malaysia because "people like me are abused and intimidated" there.

Thilaga Sulathireh, co-founder of Malaysian transgender activist group Justice for Sisters, told AFP that Sajat's was not an isolated case.

"Many LGBTIQ people have migrated and uprooted their lives because of the increasingly repressive environment in Malaysia," she said.

The country is home to some 32 million people, with ethnic Malay Muslims making up more than half of the population.

It also has a dual legal system, with Islamic criminal and family laws running alongside civil laws.

A prominent Malaysian transgender entrepreneur accused of insulting Islam in the Muslim majority country said Wednesday she was "safe, happy and free" in Australia.

A prominent Malaysian transgender entrepreneur accused of insulting Islam in the Muslim majority country said Wednesday she was "safe, happy and free" in Australia. Nur Sajat, a millionaire who runs a cosmetics business, said officials promised to help her settle in the country. "Australia chose me due to my case. So I did not apply (for asylum) to any other country," she told AFP in a video interview from an undisclosed location. Also read | Trump’s claim of executive privilege in the Jan. 6. inquiry, explained "I was intimidated and abused (in Malaysia). The Australian government realised this," she said. Sajat's case has highlighted concerns about the worsening climate for LGBT people in Muslim-majority Malaysia, where officials are increasingly cracking down against the community and seeking to toughen related laws. She was charged earlier this year after attending a 2018 religious event dressed in women's clothes, and faces up to three years in jail or a fine if convicted. She is also facing separate charges of obstructing and threatening a public servant, which she denies. The entrepreneur said Australian officials have kept in constant communication with her, but did not reveal how she travelled to the country from Thailand early this month. Canberra's department of home affairs said it does not comment on individual cases because of privacy concerns. The 36-year-old said she fled to Thailand earlier this year because she "was abused and treated inhumanely" by religious officials in Malaysia. She was arrested by Thai authorities in September over an invalid passport and later released on bail. "The decision to run away was my last decision for me, because I did not feel happiness. (I was) not free," she said. Also read | Israel approves West Bank residency for 4,000 undocumented Palestinians "There is freedom and gender equality in Australia," Sajat added. While she did not reveal the conditions of her stay -- or her exact location in Sydney -- she did confirm she was in coronavirus quarantine. Sajat said she would continue working in Australia, with a focus on gold and cosmetics. "I want to rebuild my business empire here," she said. Sajat also said she will not return to Malaysia because "people like me are abused and intimidated" there. Thilaga Sulathireh, co-founder of Malaysian transgender activist group Justice for Sisters, told AFP that Sajat's was not an isolated case. "Many LGBTIQ people have migrated and uprooted their lives because of the increasingly repressive environment in Malaysia," she said. The country is home to some 32 million people, with ethnic Malay Muslims making up more than half of the population. It also has a dual legal system, with Islamic criminal and family laws running alongside civil laws.

Malaysian trans woman says 'safe and free' in Australia

Netflix is in the spotlight once again and this time it is the accusation of firing a trans activist for staging a protest against a stand-up comedy special.<o:p></o:p>

A new stand-up comedy special by Dave Chappelle was released on the streaming platform, Netflix. His special, however, gained negative limelight as it was accused of being transphobic.<o:p></o:p>

An employee from the streaming platform staged a walkout against the show and claims she was fired for it. However, Netflix has rubbished these reports and has claimed that the employee has lied about her dismissal.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-dave-chappelle-isn%E2%80%99t-cancelled-he-just-likes-to-talk-about-it-421280">Dave Chappelle isn’t cancelled. He just likes to talk about it</a></o:p>

Netflix claims the employee was fired for sharing confidential and "commercially sensitive" information with people outside the company.<o:p></o:p>

"We understand this employee may have been motivated by disappointment and hurt with&nbsp;Netflix, but maintaining a culture of trust and transparency is core to our company," the spokesperson said.<o:p></o:p>

Many people, however, reported that the employee, who is reportedly a Black trans person, was fired for opposing the Netflix special show. <o:p></o:p>

Dave Chapelle’s special show has been receiving backlash from the public, especially the LGBTQ community. People have alleged that the comedian has made series of anti-trans jokes, targeted on gender-neutral pronouns and the genitalia of transgender people. <o:p></o:p>

This is not the first time the comedian has been alleged of this. In some of his previous stand-up comedy specials, too, he has been alleged of making similar attacks on the community.<o:p></o:p>

The employee, who is pregnant at the moment, had openly criticised the comedian for attacking the community. This employee was, as per reports, responsible for staging a virtual walk-out of nearly 1,000 employees.<o:p></o:p>

Netflix is in the spotlight once again and this time it is the accusation of firing a trans activist for staging a protest against a stand-up comedy special. A new stand-up comedy special by Dave Chappelle was released on the streaming platform, Netflix.

Netflix is in the spotlight once again and this time it is the accusation of firing a trans activist for staging a protest against a stand-up comedy special. A new stand-up comedy special by Dave Chappelle was released on the streaming platform, Netflix. His special, however, gained negative limelight as it was accused of being transphobic. An employee from the streaming platform staged a walkout against the show and claims she was fired for it. However, Netflix has rubbished these reports and has claimed that the employee has lied about her dismissal. Also read | Dave Chappelle isn’t cancelled. He just likes to talk about it Netflix claims the employee was fired for sharing confidential and "commercially sensitive" information with people outside the company. "We understand this employee may have been motivated by disappointment and hurt with Netflix, but maintaining a culture of trust and transparency is core to our company," the spokesperson said. Many people, however, reported that the employee, who is reportedly a Black trans person, was fired for opposing the Netflix special show. Dave Chapelle’s special show has been receiving backlash from the public, especially the LGBTQ community. People have alleged that the comedian has made series of anti-trans jokes, targeted on gender-neutral pronouns and the genitalia of transgender people. This is not the first time the comedian has been alleged of this. In some of his previous stand-up comedy specials, too, he has been alleged of making similar attacks on the community. The employee, who is pregnant at the moment, had openly criticised the comedian for attacking the community. This employee was, as per reports, responsible for staging a virtual walk-out of nearly 1,000 employees.

Netflix accused of firing Black, trans woman for opposing Dave Chappelle

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

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

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

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

In a series of crackdowns that included big tech firms, entertainment stars, business magnets, China is now targeting the LGBTQ community.

Fabien Baussart, writing in The Times of Israel said that China's communist government is coming down heavily on the LGBTQ community, initiating measures to keep them under constant surveillance in a university and instructing broadcasters to stop using "effeminate men" in television programmes in order to promote "revolutionary culture".

In a country where there is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships or marriage, the attempt of the Chinese Communist Party to gain control over the country's education, culture and entertainment is ending up interfering in people's private lives.

In the latest crackdown on entertainment programmes on television, the Chinese television regulator is heard saying, "resolutely put an end to sissy men and other abnormal esthetics". The insulting slang used for "effeminate men" is "niang pao", literally, "girlie guns," wrote Baussart.

The official concern is that television programmes are not encouraging China's young men to be masculine enough, instead of copying, as some Chinese pop stars do, the sleek, girlish look of some South Korean and Japanese singers and actors.

"China has instituted stricter censorship of LGBTQ and related terms on social media. Earlier this summer, social media giant WeChat deleted the official accounts of over a dozen student-run LGBT groups," echoed The Diplomat.

The social media swoop down came as a surprise because in recent times the Chinese government had left the LGBTQ community alone.

In July first week, WeChat, China's most popular messaging app, shut down without notice scores of LGBTQ accounts operated by university students. It came as a shock because it was the biggest and coordinated censorship targeting the community in several years.

As per The Times of Israel, this was done in response to an event in China a few weeks ago. Soccer star Li Ying created history when she became the first woman sportsperson to come out openly as gay. She posted a series of photographs on social media, including some with her partner.

The post on Weibo went viral and suddenly without explanation, it was deleted. The soccer star has not posted anything ever since. The Chinese state media did not report the incident at all. There is no official reaction to date.

Worse things were in store for the community. The media has reported that Shanghai University, which has three campuses in the Chinese city, is preparing a list of "non-heterosexual" students and those belonging to "LGBTQ rainbow groups", said Baussart.

Apart from denying several rights to them, the Chinese government has over time done things like equating homosexuality with violence and obscenity, censoring references on television, and promoting books referring to homosexuality as a mental illness, reported The Times of Israel.

It was only in 2001 that China removed homosexuality -- decriminalized in 1997 -- from its official list of mental disorders.

In a series of crackdowns that included big tech firms, entertainment stars, business magnets, China is now targeting the LGBTQ community. Fabien Baussart, writing in The Times of Israel said that China's communist government is coming down heavily on the LGBTQ community, initiating measures to keep them under constant surveillance in a university and instructing broadcasters to stop using "effeminate men" in television programmes in order to promote "revolutionary culture".

In a series of crackdowns that included big tech firms, entertainment stars, business magnets, China is now targeting the LGBTQ community. Fabien Baussart, writing in The Times of Israel said that China's communist government is coming down heavily on the LGBTQ community, initiating measures to keep them under constant surveillance in a university and instructing broadcasters to stop using "effeminate men" in television programmes in order to promote "revolutionary culture". In a country where there is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships or marriage, the attempt of the Chinese Communist Party to gain control over the country's education, culture and entertainment is ending up interfering in people's private lives. In the latest crackdown on entertainment programmes on television, the Chinese television regulator is heard saying, "resolutely put an end to sissy men and other abnormal esthetics". The insulting slang used for "effeminate men" is "niang pao", literally, "girlie guns," wrote Baussart. The official concern is that television programmes are not encouraging China's young men to be masculine enough, instead of copying, as some Chinese pop stars do, the sleek, girlish look of some South Korean and Japanese singers and actors. "China has instituted stricter censorship of LGBTQ and related terms on social media. Earlier this summer, social media giant WeChat deleted the official accounts of over a dozen student-run LGBT groups," echoed The Diplomat. The social media swoop down came as a surprise because in recent times the Chinese government had left the LGBTQ community alone. In July first week, WeChat, China's most popular messaging app, shut down without notice scores of LGBTQ accounts operated by university students. It came as a shock because it was the biggest and coordinated censorship targeting the community in several years. As per The Times of Israel, this was done in response to an event in China a few weeks ago. Soccer star Li Ying created history when she became the first woman sportsperson to come out openly as gay. She posted a series of photographs on social media, including some with her partner. The post on Weibo went viral and suddenly without explanation, it was deleted. The soccer star has not posted anything ever since. The Chinese state media did not report the incident at all. There is no official reaction to date. Worse things were in store for the community. The media has reported that Shanghai University, which has three campuses in the Chinese city, is preparing a list of "non-heterosexual" students and those belonging to "LGBTQ rainbow groups", said Baussart. Apart from denying several rights to them, the Chinese government has over time done things like equating homosexuality with violence and obscenity, censoring references on television, and promoting books referring to homosexuality as a mental illness, reported The Times of Israel. It was only in 2001 that China removed homosexuality -- decriminalized in 1997 -- from its official list of mental disorders.

LGBTQ students targeted, face crackdown in China

They said yes! Swiss voters back same-sex marriage

New Zealand is on its way to become the land of conquering impossible, and adding another feather to this cap of victories is its new record against conversion practices.

More than 100,000 people have lent support to ban LGBTQ conversion practices in New Zealand, which is more than any other legislation.

Till now, the government has received nearly 106,7000 submissions for the bill and more are still pouring in with every passing day.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-jacinda-ardern-warns-hospitals-to-not-let-covid-patients-have-sex-with-visitors-411852">New Zealand: Jacinda Ardern warns hospitals to not let Covid patients have sex with visitors</a>

"We've already made history with this movement and we're not even done,"&nbsp;said Shaneel Lal, an activist and organiser in the movement to ban conversion practices. "People really and truly care about this because in 2021 it is not appropriate to erase queer identities."

This bill will make conversion practices a crime. If this is passed, nobody can force or even attempt to make someone change their sexuality or gender identity.

New Zealand locals have made a record in sending these submissions, which are even more than the previous End of Life euthanasia bill that had record of nearly 40,000 submissions, local media reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-calls-new-zealand-stabbing-terrorist-attack-suspect-shot-dead-410375">Jacinda Ardern calls New Zealand stabbing 'terrorist attack'; suspect shot dead</a>

However, the submissions have not yet been processed, so it is still not clear as to how many people have supported the ban and how many have opposed it.

The LGBTQ community of New Zealand is happy and hopeful that the torturing practice will soon be put to an end by criminalising it.

"People are feeling very anxious and nervous, and for me it is important to ensure that our community is safe within the process – while I was excited to see the number of submissions, I was also nervous and anxious, what this may mean for our community," Lal said.

New Zealand is on its way to become the land of conquering impossible, and adding another feather to this cap of victories is its new record against conversion practices.

New Zealand is on its way to become the land of conquering impossible, and adding another feather to this cap of victories is its new record against conversion practices. More than 100,000 people have lent support to ban LGBTQ conversion practices in New Zealand, which is more than any other legislation. Till now, the government has received nearly 106,7000 submissions for the bill and more are still pouring in with every passing day. Also read | New Zealand: Jacinda Ardern warns hospitals to not let Covid patients have sex with visitors "We've already made history with this movement and we're not even done," said Shaneel Lal, an activist and organiser in the movement to ban conversion practices. "People really and truly care about this because in 2021 it is not appropriate to erase queer identities." This bill will make conversion practices a crime. If this is passed, nobody can force or even attempt to make someone change their sexuality or gender identity. New Zealand locals have made a record in sending these submissions, which are even more than the previous End of Life euthanasia bill that had record of nearly 40,000 submissions, local media reported. Also read | Jacinda Ardern calls New Zealand stabbing 'terrorist attack'; suspect shot dead However, the submissions have not yet been processed, so it is still not clear as to how many people have supported the ban and how many have opposed it. The LGBTQ community of New Zealand is happy and hopeful that the torturing practice will soon be put to an end by criminalising it. "People are feeling very anxious and nervous, and for me it is important to ensure that our community is safe within the process – while I was excited to see the number of submissions, I was also nervous and anxious, what this may mean for our community," Lal said.

New Zealand locals send record 100,000 submissions to ban LGBT conversion practices

Canadian actor Dan Levy, the star and co-creator of popular sitcom `Schitt`s Creek`, has surprised his fans by appearing at the Met Gala 2021.

In order to go with this year`s fashion event`s theme `In America: A Lexicon of Fashion`, Levy worked with the designers to create a powerful ensemble that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community.

Levy`s Met Gala outfit features an image of two men kissing.He even took to Instagram to give more details about his ensemble."I was fortunate enough to also get to work with @jonathan.anderson and the incredible team of designers and craftspeople at @loewe on a look that meant something to all of us. With support from the estate of American multimedia artist and LGBTQIA+ activist, David Wojnarovicz (1954-1992), Jonathan and the design team built upon an image of two men kissing from Wojnarovicz`s work, Fu** You Faggot Fu***r, named after a homophobic cartoon the artist had come across," he wrote.

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Levy added, "But rather than feed on the message of hate, we wanted to celebrate queer love and visibility - acknowledging how hard artists like Wojnarovicz had to fight, while also presenting the imagery in a way that offered a hopeful message. Tonight, we`re celebrating the resilience, the love, and the joy of the community while honoring a crucial American voice that was taken from us too soon."

Social media users have heaped praises on Levy for his support for LGBTQ people."Inspired. Thank you for always supporting LGBTQ community," a netizen commented.Levy came out as gay at the age of 18.

Canadian actor Dan Levy, the star and co-creator of popular sitcom `Schitt`s Creek`, has surprised his fans by appearing at the Met Gala 2021. In order to go with this year`s fashion event`s theme `In America: A Lexicon of Fashion`, Levy worked with the designers to create a powerful ensemble that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community.

Canadian actor Dan Levy, the star and co-creator of popular sitcom `Schitt`s Creek`, has surprised his fans by appearing at the Met Gala 2021. In order to go with this year`s fashion event`s theme `In America: A Lexicon of Fashion`, Levy worked with the designers to create a powerful ensemble that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community. Levy`s Met Gala outfit features an image of two men kissing.He even took to Instagram to give more details about his ensemble."I was fortunate enough to also get to work with @jonathan.anderson and the incredible team of designers and craftspeople at @loewe on a look that meant something to all of us. With support from the estate of American multimedia artist and LGBTQIA+ activist, David Wojnarovicz (1954-1992), Jonathan and the design team built upon an image of two men kissing from Wojnarovicz`s work, Fu** You Faggot Fu***r, named after a homophobic cartoon the artist had come across," he wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dan Levy (@instadanjlevy) × Levy added, "But rather than feed on the message of hate, we wanted to celebrate queer love and visibility - acknowledging how hard artists like Wojnarovicz had to fight, while also presenting the imagery in a way that offered a hopeful message. Tonight, we`re celebrating the resilience, the love, and the joy of the community while honoring a crucial American voice that was taken from us too soon." Social media users have heaped praises on Levy for his support for LGBTQ people."Inspired. Thank you for always supporting LGBTQ community," a netizen commented.Levy came out as gay at the age of 18.

'Schitt's Creek' fame Dan Levy's debut Met Gala look showcases love to LGBTQ community

Hungary's authoritarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has been criticised by fellow EU members for policies they say are hostile to LGBTQ people and immigrants. He has also faced international condemnation for cracking down on the press and judiciary.

Orban tightens grip over Hungary, introduces policies hostile to LGBTQ people

'Eternals' to 'Green Lantern': How Hollywood is paving way for LGBTQ community on screen

The government data for England, Wales and Scotland has revealed that since 2015, hate crimes related to sexual orientation and gender identity have increased.

In the year to March 2020 in England and Wales, sexual orientation hate crimes rose by 19 per cent to 15,835, and transgender identity hate crimes by 16 per cent to 2,540, averaging more than 50 reports each day.

Just two weeks ago, Ranjith “Roy” Kankanamalage, who is 50-years-old, was discovered with a fatal head injury in Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, east London.&nbsp;

As per the police, the attack was motivated by homophobia and a man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

In another such instance, a couple called Rob and Patrick was attacked with broken bottles in Birmingham’s gay village.

Three men have been arrested on suspicion of robbery and wounding.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/several-rockets-fired-towards-kabul-airport-intercepted-by-us-defence-system-report-409275">Also read |&nbsp;Several rockets fired towards Kabul airport, intercepted by US defence system: Report</a>

In Liverpool, during Pride month, hundreds of people joined a protest on June 22, after at least three street attacks on young men within the space of a few weeks.

While speaking with The Guardian, local activists and national campaigners revealed that this spate of attacks across the UK underscores a climate of fear endured by the LGBTQ+ community on the streets.

Sasha Misra, the associate director of campaigns at the LGBTQ+ rights charity Stonewall, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The recent incidents in Edinburgh, Birmingham, Liverpool and London are a stark reminder that in 2021, lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer people do not feel safe to be ourselves".

She also highlighted the Stonewall data from 2017 indicating that four in five such incidents go unreported, with LGBTQ+ victims often reluctant to go to the police.

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for hate crime, deputy chief constable Mark Hamilton backed her as he said, "Traditionally, homophobic and transphobic hate crimes have been significantly underreported,” he said, though he argued that the work of

LGBTQ+ liaison officers with specific responsibility for building community links was among initiatives that were paying off.

“We believe some of the increase may be down to better reporting.”

However, the local activists have described this as an escalation in public hostility.&nbsp;

The government data for England, Wales and Scotland has revealed that since 2015, hate crimes related to sexual orientation and gender identity have increased. In the year to March 2020 in England and Wales, sexual orientation hate crimes rose by 19 per cent to 15,835, and transgender identity hate crimes by 16 per cent to 2,540, averaging more than 50 reports each day.

The government data for England, Wales and Scotland has revealed that since 2015, hate crimes related to sexual orientation and gender identity have increased. In the year to March 2020 in England and Wales, sexual orientation hate crimes rose by 19 per cent to 15,835, and transgender identity hate crimes by 16 per cent to 2,540, averaging more than 50 reports each day. Just two weeks ago, Ranjith “Roy” Kankanamalage, who is 50-years-old, was discovered with a fatal head injury in Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, east London. As per the police, the attack was motivated by homophobia and a man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. In another such instance, a couple called Rob and Patrick was attacked with broken bottles in Birmingham’s gay village. Three men have been arrested on suspicion of robbery and wounding. Also read | Several rockets fired towards Kabul airport, intercepted by US defence system: Report In Liverpool, during Pride month, hundreds of people joined a protest on June 22, after at least three street attacks on young men within the space of a few weeks. While speaking with The Guardian, local activists and national campaigners revealed that this spate of attacks across the UK underscores a climate of fear endured by the LGBTQ+ community on the streets. Sasha Misra, the associate director of campaigns at the LGBTQ+ rights charity Stonewall, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The recent incidents in Edinburgh, Birmingham, Liverpool and London are a stark reminder that in 2021, lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer people do not feel safe to be ourselves". She also highlighted the Stonewall data from 2017 indicating that four in five such incidents go unreported, with LGBTQ+ victims often reluctant to go to the police. National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for hate crime, deputy chief constable Mark Hamilton backed her as he said, "Traditionally, homophobic and transphobic hate crimes have been significantly underreported,” he said, though he argued that the work of LGBTQ+ liaison officers with specific responsibility for building community links was among initiatives that were paying off. “We believe some of the increase may be down to better reporting.” However, the local activists have described this as an escalation in public hostility.

Attacks on LGBTQ+ community across UK spark fear

Four-times Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel was reprimanded for not removing a t-shirt promoting LGBTQ+ rights ahead of the national anthem at the Hungarian Grand Prix on Sunday. 
 
The German was wearing a rainbow coloured t-shirt with the message "Same Love" on the grid ahead of the start of the race. 
 
Three other drivers -- Mercedes` Valtteri Bottas, Ferrari`s Carlos Sainz and Vettel`s Aston Martin team mate Lance Stroll -- were also reprimanded for failing to remove their `We Race As One` t-shirts in time for the national anthem. 
 
Vettel and the other drivers said they had forgotten to take their t-shirts off because of the onset of rain. They were all found to be in breach of Article 12.2.1.i) of the FIA International Sporting Code and given non-driving reprimands.&nbsp; 
 
`We Race As One` is a platform launched by Formula One last year that counts diversity, inclusivity and sustainability as its core principles. 
 
Drivers are free to wear apparel with a message that is supportive of the initiative`s principles. But they were instructed to remove any such t-shirts before the national anthem and wear their race suits in a pre-race note issued by race director Michael Masi. 
 
Hungary is set to put an anti-LGBTQ+ law that limits schools’ teaching about homosexuality and transgender issues to a referendum. 
 
Vettel, who on Thursday wore shoes carrying a rainbow stripe, has spoken out against the legislation along with seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton who called on Hungarians to vote against it.

Four-times Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel was reprimanded for not removing a t-shirt promoting LGBTQ+ rights ahead of the national anthem at the Hungarian Grand Prix on Sunday.

Four-times Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel was reprimanded for not removing a t-shirt promoting LGBTQ+ rights ahead of the national anthem at the Hungarian Grand Prix on Sunday. The German was wearing a rainbow coloured t-shirt with the message "Same Love" on the grid ahead of the start of the race. Three other drivers -- Mercedes` Valtteri Bottas, Ferrari`s Carlos Sainz and Vettel`s Aston Martin team mate Lance Stroll -- were also reprimanded for failing to remove their `We Race As One` t-shirts in time for the national anthem. Vettel and the other drivers said they had forgotten to take their t-shirts off because of the onset of rain. They were all found to be in breach of Article 12.2.1.i) of the FIA International Sporting Code and given non-driving reprimands. `We Race As One` is a platform launched by Formula One last year that counts diversity, inclusivity and sustainability as its core principles. Drivers are free to wear apparel with a message that is supportive of the initiative`s principles. But they were instructed to remove any such t-shirts before the national anthem and wear their race suits in a pre-race note issued by race director Michael Masi. Hungary is set to put an anti-LGBTQ+ law that limits schools’ teaching about homosexuality and transgender issues to a referendum. Vettel, who on Thursday wore shoes carrying a rainbow stripe, has spoken out against the legislation along with seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton who called on Hungarians to vote against it.

Formula One: Sebastian Vettel and three others reprimanded for not removing LGBTQ+ rights t-shirts before anthem

France's Europe Minister Clement Beaune on Friday criticised a planned referendum by Hungary over a controversial law slammed as an attack on LGBTQ rights by Brussels.&nbsp;

"I am concerned about the Hungarian law which was adopted in mid-June and which is the subject of a referendum which does not relate exactly to this law," Beaune said as he arrived for a meeting of the bloc's Europe ministers in Slovenia.&nbsp;

Hungary's right-wing Prime Minister Viktor Orban said Wednesday that a national vote would be held to gauge domestic support for the controversial LGBTQ law, after the European Commission launched legal action against Budapest over the measure.

The legislation, which includes a ban on the "depiction or promotion" of homosexuality and gender reassignment to under-18s, has drawn scorn across Europe.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-hungarys-annual-drag-contest-is-operating-in-shadow-of-anti-lgbtqia-law-395912">Also read |&nbsp;How Hungary's annual drag contest is operating in shadow of anti-LGBTQIA+ law</a>

It has been billed by Budapest as a way to protect children, but opponents argue that it conflates paedophilia with homosexuality and stigmatises the LGBTQ community.

Orban said the referendum would comprise five questions, including asking citizens if they agree that schools should be permitted to "talk about sexuality to their children without their consent".&nbsp;

It will also ask participants if they support "the promotion of sex reassignment treatment for minors" or the "unrestricted exposure of children to harmful sexual content".

Beaune complained that issues were being falsely linked and "instrumentalised" to ensure that Orban gets a "No" from those voting in the ballot.&nbsp;

"We must not give in on these points," Beaune said.

No date has been set for the referendum.&nbsp;

France's Europe Minister Clement Beaune on Friday criticised a planned referendum by Hungary over a controversial law slammed as an attack on LGBTQ rights by Brussels.

France's Europe Minister Clement Beaune on Friday criticised a planned referendum by Hungary over a controversial law slammed as an attack on LGBTQ rights by Brussels. "I am concerned about the Hungarian law which was adopted in mid-June and which is the subject of a referendum which does not relate exactly to this law," Beaune said as he arrived for a meeting of the bloc's Europe ministers in Slovenia. Hungary's right-wing Prime Minister Viktor Orban said Wednesday that a national vote would be held to gauge domestic support for the controversial LGBTQ law, after the European Commission launched legal action against Budapest over the measure. The legislation, which includes a ban on the "depiction or promotion" of homosexuality and gender reassignment to under-18s, has drawn scorn across Europe. Also read | How Hungary's annual drag contest is operating in shadow of anti-LGBTQIA+ law It has been billed by Budapest as a way to protect children, but opponents argue that it conflates paedophilia with homosexuality and stigmatises the LGBTQ community. Orban said the referendum would comprise five questions, including asking citizens if they agree that schools should be permitted to "talk about sexuality to their children without their consent". It will also ask participants if they support "the promotion of sex reassignment treatment for minors" or the "unrestricted exposure of children to harmful sexual content". Beaune complained that issues were being falsely linked and "instrumentalised" to ensure that Orban gets a "No" from those voting in the ballot. "We must not give in on these points," Beaune said. No date has been set for the referendum.

France concerned by Hungary LGBTQ law referendum

The European Commission on Thursday launched legal action against the conservative governments of EU members Hungary and Poland in response to measures seen as discriminating against LGBTQ citizens.

As the "guardian of the treaties" binding the European Union together, the commission can launch infringement procedures against member states.

Such a procedure involves several steps and could drag out over years but could ultimately result in going to the European Court of Justice, which could impose financial penalties.

Both Hungary and Poland are ruled by right-wing, socially conservative governments whose policies have raised rule-of-law questions.

Hungary's so-called "anti-paedophilia" law, which among other things bans the "promotion" of homosexuality and gender reassignment to under-18s, came into force last week despite many warnings from Brussels and pushback by EU leaders.

EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said last week that the EU executive would use "all powers available" to force Hungary to repeal or modify the law.

"Europe will never allow parts of our society to be stigmatised: be it because of whom they love, because of their age, their ethnicity, their political opinions, or their religious beliefs," she told MEPs.

Hungary's legislation was billed as a way to protect children, but opponents argue that it conflates paedophilia with homosexuality and stigmatises the LGBTQ community.

In Poland, around 100 towns and villages have adopted the "anti-LGBT" resolution, which some describe as a "charter for family rights". They cover about a third of Polish territory and are mainly located in the country's east and southeast, traditionally very Catholic.

"The commission considers that Polish authorities failed to fully and appropriately respond to its inquiry regarding the nature and impact of the so-called 'LGBT-ideology free zones'," a statement said.

Poland is already in Brussels' bad books for judicial reforms, which have several times been ruled to go against EU standards on judges' independence.

The two member states now have two months to respond to the arguments put forward by the commission before the procedure enters the next stage.

The European Commission on Thursday launched legal action against the conservative governments of EU members Hungary and Poland in response to measures seen as discriminating against LGBTQ citizens.

The European Commission on Thursday launched legal action against the conservative governments of EU members Hungary and Poland in response to measures seen as discriminating against LGBTQ citizens. As the "guardian of the treaties" binding the European Union together, the commission can launch infringement procedures against member states. Such a procedure involves several steps and could drag out over years but could ultimately result in going to the European Court of Justice, which could impose financial penalties. Both Hungary and Poland are ruled by right-wing, socially conservative governments whose policies have raised rule-of-law questions. Hungary's so-called "anti-paedophilia" law, which among other things bans the "promotion" of homosexuality and gender reassignment to under-18s, came into force last week despite many warnings from Brussels and pushback by EU leaders. EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said last week that the EU executive would use "all powers available" to force Hungary to repeal or modify the law. "Europe will never allow parts of our society to be stigmatised: be it because of whom they love, because of their age, their ethnicity, their political opinions, or their religious beliefs," she told MEPs. Hungary's legislation was billed as a way to protect children, but opponents argue that it conflates paedophilia with homosexuality and stigmatises the LGBTQ community. In Poland, around 100 towns and villages have adopted the "anti-LGBT" resolution, which some describe as a "charter for family rights". They cover about a third of Polish territory and are mainly located in the country's east and southeast, traditionally very Catholic. "The commission considers that Polish authorities failed to fully and appropriately respond to its inquiry regarding the nature and impact of the so-called 'LGBT-ideology free zones'," a statement said. Poland is already in Brussels' bad books for judicial reforms, which have several times been ruled to go against EU standards on judges' independence. The two member states now have two months to respond to the arguments put forward by the commission before the procedure enters the next stage.

EU launches legal action against Hungary, Poland over LGBTQ rights

"The Crown" and "The Mandalorian" led the charge in Tuesday's Emmy nominations, as television prepares to honor a year transformed by the pandemic.

Here are six takeaways:

- Streamers sink or swim -

In a TV era widely dubbed the "streaming wars," the various new online platforms had a hugely mixed day.

Disney+ and Apple TV+ triumphed among the new kids on the block, earning 71 and 34 nods in their second years (up from 19 and 18 on debut.)

And HBO Max chipped in with original streaming titles such as "Hacks" and "The Flight Attendant" to edge HBO's combined total, just past rival Netflix in the overall network race.

But in an increasingly crowded marketplace, Paramount+ earned just six nods and NBC's Peacock crashed out with only two nominations on their launch years.

- TV or not TV? -&nbsp;

With each passing year, the Emmys is forced to re-assess an existential question: what actually is television?

Is it Steve McQueen's critically adored "Small Axe" -- an anthology of five films made for the small-screen about London's West Indian immigrants, which did not compete at the Oscars?

Or is it "Hamilton" -- a live taping of the Broadway smash-hit stage musical, bundled onto Disney+?

The boundaries are becoming more and more blurred by streaming, but Emmy voters at least made their preferences clear on Tuesday.

"Hamilton" bagged 12 nods, including a whopping seven acting nominations, while "Small Axe" earned a paltry one for cinematography.

- First-time noms -

With the pandemic restricting TV productions all year, many established shows were missing -- creating room for a flock of first-time acting nominees to break through.

Forty-four rising stars earned debut acting recognition this year, including "I May Destroy You" creator and actress Michaela Coel, "Bridgerton" heart-throb Rege-Jean Page, and "WandaVision" lead Elizabeth Olsen.

"The Crown" newcomers Josh O'Connor and Emma Corrin are first-time favorites for their lead roles as Prince Charles and Princess Diana, as is Anya Taylor-Joy for "The Queen's Gambit."&nbsp;

And Kaley Cuoco finally took her first nomination for "The Flight Attendant," after years without recognition in the massively popular sitcom "The Big Bang Theory."

- Transgender history -

MJ Rodriguez, another first-time nominee, made history as the first transgender woman nominated for a lead acting role at the Emmys.

Rodriguez stars as mother hen Blanca Rodriguez in "Pose," the groundbreaking FX show which explores New York's underground ballroom culture in the 1980s.

GLAAD, a US organization that promotes greater LGBTQ inclusion in the media, hailed her nomination as "a breakthrough for transgender women in Hollywood."

- Courteney and Conan -

There was a strong nostalgic air to Tuesday's nominations -- in particular for Courteney Cox and Conan O'Brien.

Cox was famously the one "Friends" star never nominated for an Emmy during the wildly popular sitcom's original run.

Voters finally remedied that -- to an extent -- that by nominating the much-maligned "Friends: The Reunion," on which Cox served as an executive producer, for four awards including best pre-recorded variety special.

Meanwhile veteran late-night talk host O'Brien, who retired "Conan" last month, received his first Emmy nod in the variety series section for 10 years.

- Britney doc -

Pop star Britney Spears is embroiled in a high-profile legal battle to end the guardianship she has been under ever since her very public breakdown in 2008.

Just a day before another major hearing at Los Angeles court, she is back in the spotlight thanks to a pair of Emmy nominations for feature-length documentary "Framing Britney Spears."

Produced by FX and The New York Times, it focuses on the role of paparazzi and the tabloid press in the downfall of the singer, and helped draw attention to her adoring fans' #FreeBritney campaign.

"The Crown" and "The Mandalorian" led the charge in Tuesday's Emmy nominations, as television prepares to honor a year transformed by the pandemic. Here are six takeaways: - Streamers sink or swim - In a TV era widely dubbed the "streaming wars," the various new online platforms had a hugely mixed day.

"The Crown" and "The Mandalorian" led the charge in Tuesday's Emmy nominations, as television prepares to honor a year transformed by the pandemic. Here are six takeaways: - Streamers sink or swim - In a TV era widely dubbed the "streaming wars," the various new online platforms had a hugely mixed day. Disney+ and Apple TV+ triumphed among the new kids on the block, earning 71 and 34 nods in their second years (up from 19 and 18 on debut.) And HBO Max chipped in with original streaming titles such as "Hacks" and "The Flight Attendant" to edge HBO's combined total, just past rival Netflix in the overall network race. But in an increasingly crowded marketplace, Paramount+ earned just six nods and NBC's Peacock crashed out with only two nominations on their launch years. - TV or not TV? - With each passing year, the Emmys is forced to re-assess an existential question: what actually is television? Is it Steve McQueen's critically adored "Small Axe" -- an anthology of five films made for the small-screen about London's West Indian immigrants, which did not compete at the Oscars? Or is it "Hamilton" -- a live taping of the Broadway smash-hit stage musical, bundled onto Disney+? The boundaries are becoming more and more blurred by streaming, but Emmy voters at least made their preferences clear on Tuesday. "Hamilton" bagged 12 nods, including a whopping seven acting nominations, while "Small Axe" earned a paltry one for cinematography. - First-time noms - With the pandemic restricting TV productions all year, many established shows were missing -- creating room for a flock of first-time acting nominees to break through. Forty-four rising stars earned debut acting recognition this year, including "I May Destroy You" creator and actress Michaela Coel, "Bridgerton" heart-throb Rege-Jean Page, and "WandaVision" lead Elizabeth Olsen. "The Crown" newcomers Josh O'Connor and Emma Corrin are first-time favorites for their lead roles as Prince Charles and Princess Diana, as is Anya Taylor-Joy for "The Queen's Gambit." And Kaley Cuoco finally took her first nomination for "The Flight Attendant," after years without recognition in the massively popular sitcom "The Big Bang Theory." - Transgender history - MJ Rodriguez, another first-time nominee, made history as the first transgender woman nominated for a lead acting role at the Emmys. Rodriguez stars as mother hen Blanca Rodriguez in "Pose," the groundbreaking FX show which explores New York's underground ballroom culture in the 1980s. GLAAD, a US organization that promotes greater LGBTQ inclusion in the media, hailed her nomination as "a breakthrough for transgender women in Hollywood." - Courteney and Conan - There was a strong nostalgic air to Tuesday's nominations -- in particular for Courteney Cox and Conan O'Brien. Cox was famously the one "Friends" star never nominated for an Emmy during the wildly popular sitcom's original run. Voters finally remedied that -- to an extent -- that by nominating the much-maligned "Friends: The Reunion," on which Cox served as an executive producer, for four awards including best pre-recorded variety special. Meanwhile veteran late-night talk host O'Brien, who retired "Conan" last month, received his first Emmy nod in the variety series section for 10 years. - Britney doc - Pop star Britney Spears is embroiled in a high-profile legal battle to end the guardianship she has been under ever since her very public breakdown in 2008. Just a day before another major hearing at Los Angeles court, she is back in the spotlight thanks to a pair of Emmy nominations for feature-length documentary "Framing Britney Spears." Produced by FX and The New York Times, it focuses on the role of paparazzi and the tabloid press in the downfall of the singer, and helped draw attention to her adoring fans' #FreeBritney campaign.

Courteney, Britney and LGBTQ history: six Emmys takeaways

Israel’s Supreme Court cleared the way for same-sex couples to have children through surrogacy. The move is being hailed by lawmakers and as a victory for LGBTQ rights activists.

Israel's Supreme Court allows surrogacy for gay couples

In a step towards equality, Israel’s Supreme Court has ruled in favour of surrogacy for same-sex couples in the country.

The critics argued that allowing surrogacy for same-sex couples will a hindrance to the already existing family values. However, the Supreme Court ruled that any and all restrictions imposed on same-sex couples regarding surrogacy should be lifted within six months.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-israel-set-to-offer-booster-shot-of-pfizer-vaccine-against-delta-variant-397393">Israel to offer booster shot of Pfizer vaccine against Delta variant of Covid</a>

Surrogacy is a process of reproduction where a woman agrees to bear a child for someone and then gives the baby to the couple after delivery. The process was legalised in 1996 but same-sex couples were still fighting to earn their rights.

The battle reached courts when a same-sex couple, Etai and Yoav Arad-Pinkas in 2010, first appealed for the right to surrogacy. However, their attempt failed and they had to file another petition in 2015 with the help of another LGBTQ rights group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-orders-demolition-of-palestinian-homes-in-west-bank-village-396548" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-orders-demolition-of-palestinian-homes-in-west-bank-village-396548&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjRhoWZndvxAhUFjeYKHeWjAEk4ChAWMAV6BAgJEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0yVHs2yOy7OZ55AuZFXUAF" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-orders-demolition-of-palestinian-homes-in-west-bank-village-396548" target="_blank">Israel&nbsp;orders demolition of Palestinian homes in West Bank village</a>

After a long battle, the Supreme Court ruled that excluding same-sex couples and single men from practicing the right to surrogacy is unconstitutional.

"It's a lot easier and more sane," Gay rights advocate Oz Parvin, head of the Association of Israeli Gay Fathers said.

Several same-sex couples from Israel have had to resort to going to other countries such as India, Nepal, Thailand, and the US to adopt a baby by surrogacy.

In a step towards equality, Israel’s Supreme Court has ruled in favour of surrogacy for same-sex couples in the country. The critics argued that allowing surrogacy for same-sex couples will a hindrance to the already existing family values.

In a step towards equality, Israel’s Supreme Court has ruled in favour of surrogacy for same-sex couples in the country. The critics argued that allowing surrogacy for same-sex couples will a hindrance to the already existing family values. However, the Supreme Court ruled that any and all restrictions imposed on same-sex couples regarding surrogacy should be lifted within six months. Also read | Israel to offer booster shot of Pfizer vaccine against Delta variant of Covid Surrogacy is a process of reproduction where a woman agrees to bear a child for someone and then gives the baby to the couple after delivery. The process was legalised in 1996 but same-sex couples were still fighting to earn their rights. The battle reached courts when a same-sex couple, Etai and Yoav Arad-Pinkas in 2010, first appealed for the right to surrogacy. However, their attempt failed and they had to file another petition in 2015 with the help of another LGBTQ rights group. Also read | Israel orders demolition of Palestinian homes in West Bank village After a long battle, the Supreme Court ruled that excluding same-sex couples and single men from practicing the right to surrogacy is unconstitutional. "It's a lot easier and more sane," Gay rights advocate Oz Parvin, head of the Association of Israeli Gay Fathers said. Several same-sex couples from Israel have had to resort to going to other countries such as India, Nepal, Thailand, and the US to adopt a baby by surrogacy.

Israel's Supreme Court allows surrogacy for same-sex couples

In a strange incident, a bookshop chain in Hungary has been fined for selling a children’s story which depicts a day in the life of a child with same-sex parents. The officials condemned the picture book for featuring such families.

Named as 'Micsoda család!', the book is a Hungarian translation combining two titles by US author Lawrence Schimel and illustrator Elīna Brasliņa: Early One Morning. It shows a young boy’s morning with his two mothers, and Bedtime, Not Playtime!, in which a young girl with two fathers is reluctant to go to sleep.

Pest county commissioner Richard Tarnai told television station Hír TV that Líra Könyv had violated rules on unfair commercial practices by failing to indicate that the book contained “content which deviates from the norm”.

Tarnai was quoted by The Guardian saying, "The book was there among other fairytale books and thus committed a violation.

There is no way of knowing that this book is about a family that is different than a normal family.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/china-deletes-lgbtq-university-accounts-from-biggest-social-media-app-wechat-396452">Also read |&nbsp;China deletes LGBTQ university accounts from biggest social media app Wechat</a>

Speaking with The Guardian, he said that the idea for the books was to “celebrate queer families, to put more queer joy into the world so that the only books available to children weren’t about conflicts”.

Schimel, who is the author told Reuters, it was significant that his book had come under 'attack' just before the new law targeting LGBTQ+ rights enters into force.

As per a Facebook post, the Lyra Group is investigating the possibility of legal response, mainly due to the general consequences of the decision. According to the book market rules, ensuring the legal purity of a book is always the task of the publishing house, bookstores cannot check the content.

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In a strange incident, a bookshop chain in Hungary has been fined for selling a children’s story which depicts a day in the life of a child with same-sex parents.

In a strange incident, a bookshop chain in Hungary has been fined for selling a children’s story which depicts a day in the life of a child with same-sex parents. The officials condemned the picture book for featuring such families. Named as 'Micsoda család!', the book is a Hungarian translation combining two titles by US author Lawrence Schimel and illustrator Elīna Brasliņa: Early One Morning. It shows a young boy’s morning with his two mothers, and Bedtime, Not Playtime!, in which a young girl with two fathers is reluctant to go to sleep. Pest county commissioner Richard Tarnai told television station Hír TV that Líra Könyv had violated rules on unfair commercial practices by failing to indicate that the book contained “content which deviates from the norm”. Tarnai was quoted by The Guardian saying, "The book was there among other fairytale books and thus committed a violation. There is no way of knowing that this book is about a family that is different than a normal family.” Also read | China deletes LGBTQ university accounts from biggest social media app Wechat Speaking with The Guardian, he said that the idea for the books was to “celebrate queer families, to put more queer joy into the world so that the only books available to children weren’t about conflicts”. Schimel, who is the author told Reuters, it was significant that his book had come under 'attack' just before the new law targeting LGBTQ+ rights enters into force. As per a Facebook post, the Lyra Group is investigating the possibility of legal response, mainly due to the general consequences of the decision. According to the book market rules, ensuring the legal purity of a book is always the task of the publishing house, bookstores cannot check the content. ×

Hungary fines bookshop chain depicting LGBT families in book

After two years of debate, the French parliament has approved fertility treatments for lesbian couples. Which other countries permit IVF for lesbians? Why are same-sex couples denied the right to raise a family? Palki Sharma has a report.

Gravitas: France clears IVF treatment for lesbians

IN PICS | Thousands turn out for Pride marches all across the globe

The issue of LGBTQ rights has divided European Union. Hungary is pushing a law that allegedly discriminates against LGBTQ. The Vatican is pushing Italy to drop a new law on gay rights. Even football has become embroiled in the debate. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: In Europe, a fight for LGBTQ rights

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