Category: News

Massive protests have broken out in Belfast after the puberty lock ban was extended to Northern Ireland. The authorities’ decision caused a wave of discontent among the local population, concerned about the restriction of rights and access to medical procedures for teenagers. The city’s streets filled with protesters expressing their disagreement with the new measures and demanding a review of the controversial law.

Department of Health under fire as drug ban sparks protests in Northern Ireland

The Department of Health has announced that the ban on the private sale and supply of this medicine has been extended to include private prescriptions in Northern Ireland. The drug, which is widely used to delay unwanted aspects of physical puberty and is particularly popular among teenagers under 18, will now only be available under strict government regulations, raising concerns among parents and medical professionals.

In response to the extension of the ban, protests broke out in both Dublin and Belfast. On Tuesday 27 August, around 100 people gathered in front of Belfast City Hall to express their opposition to the new restrictions. According to BBC News, the group said on social media: “These are troubling times for many affected by these changes. Now more than ever, it is important that our transgender loved ones feel our support and visible solidarity.”

Protesters posted photos on Platform X of participants holding signs with slogans such as “Remove transphobia from our healthcare system,” “Transgender Power,” and “Transgender Freedom Now.”

Following the extension of the ban, activists expressed strong criticism of the British government. LGBTQ+ rights organization TransActual condemned the decision, describing it as potentially dangerous to the health and well-being of transgender people.

Bans and protests: expanding restrictions on puberty blocking in different countries

Bans on puberty blocking, used to slow or prevent the development of secondary sexual characteristics in transgender teenagers, are spreading in several countries, sparking significant debate and protest. Among these countries are:

1. United Kingdom: In recent years, the UK government has tightened its policies regarding access to puberty blockers, particularly for minors. In 2020, the High Court of England and Wales ruled that children under 16 must be legally authorized to receive these drugs, significantly limiting their availability. The ban was recently extended to Northern Ireland, sparking protests and criticism from LGBTQ+ organizations.
2. Sweden: In 2021, Sweden revised its policy on the use of puberty blockers, limiting their use to rigorous clinical trials only. The decision comes after studies pointing to possible long-term risks and a lack of data on the safety of these drugs.
3. Finland: Finland has also taken steps to limit the use of puberty blockers, citing the need for more careful analysis of the long-term effects of their use. New guidelines were published in 2020 which suggest that such drugs should only be used in exceptional cases and after a full assessment of the teenager’s health.
4. USA: In the US, the situation with puberty blockers varies by state. Some states, such as Arkansas and Alabama, have passed laws banning or significantly limiting access to these drugs for minors. These measures have sparked numerous lawsuits and criticism from human rights organizations.

These countries demonstrate different approaches to regulating puberty blockers, reflecting the growing debate surrounding their use and impact on the health of transgender adolescents.

This weekend the University of Northampton will be the site of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the UK’s largest outdoor group for the LGBTQ+ community.

Half a century of outdoor activities: GOC gathers at Waterside Campus for anniversary meeting

The University’s Waterside campus will host its annual Gay Club (GOC) open meeting, which will attract hundreds of participants. As part of the significant event, an exhibition of memories prepared by the group’s archivist will be presented. Jim Cornwell, chairman of the GOC, noted that the club is not just a community for walking, but a place where members find “deep friendships” and unique outdoor opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable.

The GOC has 40 groups across the UK, including the Northampton and District Association. The GOC’s annual public meeting will take place at the University of Northampton’s Waterside Campus and will run from Friday to Monday.

From hiking to social support: How GOC and Jim Cornwell are creating strong bonds in the LGBTQ+ community

The Gay Club (GOC) UK, chaired by Jim Cornwell, is a symbol of active support and inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community in outdoor activities and social inclusion. Since its inception, the club has expanded its presence to 40 groups across the country, including Northampton and the surrounding area. These groups, all run by volunteers, offer a wide range of active activities, from hiking and rock climbing to visiting beautiful gardens.

Jim Cornwell, GOC’s inspiring leader, emphasizes that the club helps its members not only have an active time, but also build strong connections and create unforgettable memories.

Each summer the club hosts an impressive public meeting that attracts hundreds of participants and includes an exhibit highlighting the history and achievements of the GOC. This event not only celebrates the club’s 50th anniversary, but also serves as a platform to showcase the cohesion and achievements of the community, maintaining a spirit of solidarity and mutual aid among its members.

Under Jim Cornwell’s leadership, GOC remains a significant part of many people’s lives, providing not only active activities, but also social events that strengthen connections and promote community building. Its commitment to equality and inclusion allows the club to continually grow and create new opportunities, supporting members of the UK’s LGBTQ+ community. GOC consistently offers a wide range of activities and events that help strengthen the community and promote its values ​​year after year.

This year’s Jerusalem Pride and Tolerance March will be held under the theme “Born to Be Free” and will combine a call for the release of 132 hostages held by Hamas and other terrorist groups in the Gaza Strip with a traditional rally in support of LGBTQ rights.

Jerusalem Open Day: Fighting for Liberation and Supporting the Pride March

The event is being coordinated in partnership with the Forum for Hostages and Missing Persons, the primary organization advocating for the interests of captive families.

The organizers said in a statement that the overall motto expresses core principles such as fighting for the release of hostages, as well as supporting the Pride and Tolerance March, calling for freedom and safety for all.

“The Jerusalem Open Day brought the October 7 victims to the forefront of their protest this year, and I am touched by their support for our fight”Tom Barkai, leader of the Jerusalem division of the Hostage and Missing Families Forum, expressed in a statement.”

The closing gathering in the park will see the participation of families and relatives of the hostages, as well as representatives from families of the deceased and communities forced to leave their homes due to the war.

The event will include performances by artists “who will provide hope and comfort, even during these challenging times.”

“This year, we have a moral duty to support the families of the hostages. It is fundamental to our commitment to advocate for our rights, liberty, security and freedom,” said Jerusalem Open Day head Nillie Maderer. “Judging by the pain of recent months, we see a double value in the march – we demand complete freedom and equality in Israel, for all who cannot live a free, fulfilling life.”

Jerusalem Pride March: Uniting in the fight for rights and liberation

Among the marchers will be the fan club of the Hapoel Jerusalem soccer team, which will advocate for the release of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a dedicated fan of the team, the statement said. In contrast to the light-hearted fun of Tel Aviv’s LGBTQ parade, unlike the closely monitored march in Jerusalem, is typically viewed as a celebration of Pride and also serves as a form of protest against intolerant religious fundamentalist factions in a city known for its strong religious presence, where there are efforts to restrict LGBTQ rights. 

Jonathan Walker stated, “The alliance with the Hostage and Missing Families Forum is organic and vital, as they advocate for principles we have upheld for more than twenty years – the sanctity of life, human rights, and the freedom of every individual.”The Chairman of Jerusalem Day opens doors.

Since the start of the war, which began on October 7 and was initiated by Hamas in southern Israel, many public events have taken on a more subdued atmosphere due to the war and the ongoing hostage crisis. An estimated 128 hostages captured by Hamas on October 7 remain in Gaza – not all of them alive – after 105 civilians were released from Hamas captivity during a week-long ceasefire in late November and four hostages were previously released. Three hostages were successfully rescued by the military, and the bodies of 12 hostages were recovered, among whom three were inadvertently killed by the military.

Israeli forces have confirmed the deaths of 36 people still in Hamas captivity, citing new intelligence and information received from forces operating in the Gaza Strip. Since 2014, Hamas has also held the bodies of fallen IDF soldiers Oron Shaul and Hadar Goldin, and two Israeli civilians Averu Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed.

The latter two are believed to remain alive after entering the Gaza Strip of their own accord in 2014 and 2015 respectively.

The LGBTQ+ community expresses fundamental principles such as advocating for the release of hostages and supporting the Pride and Tolerance March, calling for freedom and safety for all. These ideals are central to the efforts of LGBTQ+ activists worldwide, seeking equal rights and protection from discrimination. Pride marches serve as a platform to support the LGBTQ+ community and show solidarity with its members. They call for respect for diversity and inclusivity in society, where everyone can feel respected and accepted. These events also seek to increase awareness of significant challenges confronting the LGBTQ+ community and to promote legal and social reforms necessary to guarantee equal rights and safeguard against violence and discrimination.

Thousands of people gathered in Paris along with several other cities across France along with as in Belgium, in major demonstrations, showing their solidarity for the transgender community and protesting against all forms of transphobia. These impressive actions highlight public unity in the fight for transgender rights and against discrimination.

Rallies like these highlight the importance of solidarity and support in the fight for the rights and acceptance of transgender people. The rallying of thousands of people in various cities shows a growing recognition of the need to protect and respect the rights of transgender people, as well as awareness of the issues of transphobia. It also highlights how the international community can come together to support vulnerable groups and strive for a fairer and more equitable society.

Large-scale rallies in defense of transgender rights were held in France and Europe

According to information from the French Ministry of the Interior, around 10,880 participants involved in demonstrations took place across the country on Sunday. A particularly substantial gathering drew roughly 2,500 attendees at Place de la République in Paris. Participants actively chanted slogans in support of transgender people and expressed solidarity with transgender communities around the world. One of the organizers, speaking to France 24, emphasized the importance of the event: “This is our reality every day. It is critically important now to protect the rights of all people, especially as rightist and extremist right-wing forces attack transgender rights and spread misinformation about children’s trans identities.”

Other protesters expressed similar sentiments of anti-patriarchal and anti-capitalist sentiments activism in cities such as Lyon, Marseille, Montpellier, as well as Brussels, Liege and several other localities.

Revolution Permanente pointed out that the French far-right’s tactics are similar to those in the US and UK, accusing conservative parties of unjustifiably attacking transgender children. In its statement, the publication stressed: “In response to these attacks, whose catastrophic consequences are already visible in the United States, Britain and Russia, it is necessary to form a broad coalition and integrate the protection of transgender rights into comprehensive international responses.”

France leads US and UK on LGBTQ+ rights despite internal disputes

Although transgender rights remain controversial in France, the country ranks higher on LGBTQ+ rights than the US and UK, according to Equaldex, an equality aggregator managed by the community.The Equality Index places France in the 20th position for LGBTQ+ rights, while the US and UK rank 27th and 28th respectively.

In France, support for trans and non-binary individuals remains strong. An Ipsos 2023 study found that 7.7% of French people support the fight against discrimination against transgender people. The practice of conversion therapy is prohibited in the country, a practice that the UK has yet to legislate, despite lengthy debate. However, France still faces the need to strengthen protections for transgender rights, while non-binary individuals still do not have full recognition and various forms of discrimination still exist. In March, the Minister of Justice, Eric Dupont-Moretti formally apologized for the country’s past treatment of the LGBTQ+ community, which he said had faced “completely unfair repression.”

Members of the Bundestag have passed a law that allows gender changes theoretically every year.

Germany adopted a law on gender self-determination: what does this mean for citizens

The German parliament has passed a law promoting gender self-determination, designed to streamline the processes involved in altering names and gender identity. The Self-Determination Act garnered broad approval from the governing Traffic Light coalition, under the leadership of Olaf Scholz. but the debate surrounding it was bitter and emotional. As a result of the vote, 374 deputies spoke in favor of the law, while 251 expressed their opposition. The law will come into force on November 1.

Previously, to change gender, it was necessary to undergo an examination by two doctors (psychiatrists) “well versed in the problems of transsexualism” and obtain judicial permission. Under the new law, adults (over 18 years of age) only need to notify the authorities three months in advance and go through a simple procedure for choosing a new gender from the three provided for in German law. However, once a decision has been made, changes or cancellations are not permitted for a year.

For German citizens aged 14 to 18 years, such an application requires the approval of a parent or guardian. However, even if they refuse, the applicant has the right to apply to the family court to try to overturn this prohibition. For persons under 14 years of age, the application must be submitted by their parent or guardian on their behalf. The new law concerns only legal procedures and does not affect the rules for gender reassignment surgery.

Gender self-determination in different countries: legislation and challenges

Laws to facilitate gender reassignment procedures and their consequences may vary from country to country. Some of the countries that have passed laws or made legislative changes to facilitate gender reassignment procedures include:

Argentina. Here, in 2012, a law was passed that allows people to change their gender and name on documents without the need to undergo medical or legal procedures.

Spain. In 2007, the Equality Act was passed, which also simplified gender and name change procedures for transgender people.

Portugal. The country changed its civil status laws in 2011, allowing people to change their gender on their documents without the need for surgery or medical examination.

Canada. Various provinces in Canada have passed laws and policies to make gender and name change procedures easier for transgender people.

These are just a few examples. Gender identity policies and legislation are constantly evolving, and laws may change over time in different countries.

Apart from the countries mentioned, many others are also working to simplify gender reassignment procedures and its consequences. For example, in the US, different states have their own laws and policies on this issue. Somesome states permit changing the gender on your birth certificate without requiring surgery or court approval. However, approaches may differ significantly depending on the state.

In many countries of the European Union there are also changes in legislation aimed at making the process of gender change simpler and named. For example, Sweden, Holland, and Finland have laws that allow citizens to alter their gender on formal paperwork without the need for medical procedures or court approvals.

One of the main principles underlying these changes is the recognition of the human entitlement to one’s gender identity and self-determination. The desire for respect and recognition of personal gender identity is becoming increasingly important in modern society.

However, despite the passage of laws streamlining processes for gender reassignment challenges remain regarding social acceptance and support for transgender people. This may include combating bias, availability of medical services, and psychological assistance access, and creating inclusive educational and work environments.

Therefore, streamlining procedures for gender reassignment represents a crucial stride in acknowledging the rights of individual gender identities and fostering a more inclusive society. However, achieving this objective in its entirety necessitates additional efforts in providing social support and embracing the diversity of gender identities.

In London, two women who are part of an LGBT+ couple are expecting a baby after using sperm from the same donor. Emily, 38, and Carrie, 35, are in the process of preparing for motherhood.

Secrets of donation: Who became the ideal donor for women

The women spent £25,000 on the insemination procedure. The donor was an American with Dutch-German roots. Before the procedure itself, the women received detailed information about his biography, pedigree, looked at his childhood photographs, listened to a recording of his voice and even checked his handwriting.

“We also know how he makes a living, his hobbies, likes and dislikes. We even know he has long fingers and high cheekbones,” says mother-to-be Kerry.

The donor also made a significant charitable donation to the clinic. This will ensure that future children have complete information about their biological father as soon as they turn 18. Despite the fact that pregnancies occur simultaneously, the boys carried by women will be born with a short time interval of a few weeks. Emily and Kerry are looking forward to the arrival of their children and the joys of motherhood.

Being born LGBT+: an example of acceptance and evolution in modern society

The birth of a child in an LGBT+ family is one of the important moments that demonstrates the evolution and inclusiveness of modern society. This event not only brings joy to parents, but also serves as an example of accepting diversity in family patterns.

One of the key features of having a child in an LGBT+ family is the use of assisted reproduction methods such as sperm or egg donation. These methods allow same-sex couples to have biological offspring and fulfill their desire to become parents.

However, the process of preparing for the birth of a child for an LGBT+ couple may involve additional steps, such as choosing a sperm or egg donor, medical procedures and legal aspects related to establishing parental rights.

It is important to note that the birth of a child in an LGBT+ family is no less significant and loved than in traditional families. For expectant parents, this often becomes a center of attention and a source of joy, and for society, it is a reason for awareness of the diversity of family forms.

In addition, the birth of a child in an LGBT+ family helps to expand understanding and tolerance in society. This sparks discussion about the rights and protection of LGBT+ families, and helps create a friendlier and more inclusive environment for all members of society.

Thus, the birth of a child in an LGBT+ family is not only a joyful event for parents, but also a step towards a more harmonious and understanding society, where every family has the right to happiness and children, regardless of their orientation or gender.

Now a Catholic priest can bless a union of people of the same sex, but this will happen outside of church rituals and liturgies.

Pope Francis has officially allowed Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples. The move was confirmed in a declaration published by the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. According to this document, “nonconforming couples” can receive blessings, provided that this occurs outside of church liturgies and rituals. However, the declaration states that the Church’s teaching on marriage between a man and a woman remains unchanged. It is separately noted that the blessing of a same-sex union should not have any similarities with the wedding ceremony, neither in clothing nor in gestures. However, the move represents a departure from the previous principle that God “cannot bless sin” in favor of the principle of the church being “open to one and all.”

Divided opinions: from positive reactions to fears in conservative circles

The Vatican’s announcement was seen by some as a step towards overcoming discrimination in the Catholic Church. However, according to some LGBT rights advocates, the decision highlights the fact that church views still favor heterosexual unions over same-sex couples. While in conservative circles the news caused sharp criticism of the Holy See, which was expressed in outrage and fears of a possible split.

Franca Giansoldati, Vatican correspondent for Messagero, comments on the pontiff’s decision, which raises objections within the church

Pope Francis has approved a document allowing Catholic priests to bless unmarried couples, including same-sex couples. “The Vatican states that blessings should not be part of normal church rituals or associated with civil unions or weddings. In other words, although this is not a liturgical blessing, it represents a significant step in the Catholic Church’s treatment of the LGBTQ community,” it said. Euronews correspondent George Orlandi speaking to the expert.

This is a significant advance. It can almost be compared to the fact that Pope Francis reversed previous decisions made by John Paul II and Pope Benedict, especially considering that in 2021 Pope Francis approved a document denying the possibility of such a move on the part of the church. What has changed during this time? At the last synod, voices appeared calling for such a blessing, for the manifestation of care, these requests were very persistent, and Pope Francis could not ignore them.

However, this move will raise many objections. We are already seeing reactions on social media, mainly from bishops and various church officials expressing their concern. This move has internal consequences for the church, which has never before been as divided as it is today.

In Brisbane, Australia, a Christian college is encouraging parents to sign an agreement that provides the right to expel students who are openly LGBT+.

Citipointe sent an updated student admission agreement to parents before the start of the new semester. This document describes homosexuality as a sin and “immoral behavior” compared to other prohibited acts such as bestiality, incest and pedophilia.

The school document asserts that they view any type of sexual misconduct, encompassing behaviors such as debauchery, homosexual and bisexual acts, bestiality, incest, pedophilia, pornography, and more, as morally unacceptable and contrary to their religious beliefs. They believe that such actions are offensive to God, detrimental to interpersonal connections, and have a negative impact on society.

According to the terms of the contract, new students are only allowed to continue their studies if “their gender identity matches their biological sex.”

College Principal, Pastor Brian Mulheran, said: “We are dedicated to preserving our Christian principles and enabling parents and students to make well-informed decisions regarding their willingness to endorse and adopt our Christian education philosophy”

Mulheran emphasized that Citipointe has no intention of showing bias against students due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, and admissions decisions will not be solely predicated on these factors.. However, Mulheran’s statements contradict the new contract, which clearly states that the college has the right to expel a student if his sex does not correspond to the institution’s biological sex.

However, the move has sparked heated debate and criticism from the public and LGBT+ rights advocates. Many have expressed concern that the institution’s policies could promote discrimination and create a hostile environment for LGBT+ students.

Activists said Citipointe College’s contract is discriminatory and violates the rights of LGBT+ students. They underscored the significance of establishing a welcoming and secure atmosphere for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

This event became an occasion for discussion of the legality and ethics of such policies in educational institutions and emphasized the relevance of issues related to the rights of LGBT+ people in the educational field. Meanwhile, debate on this issue continues, and many are waiting for further developments and solutions in this area.

The decision of the educational institution causes criticism from society

A petition was created to protest the new rules introduced by the Citipointe educational institution. This petition essentially accuses the school of discriminating against students who belong to the queer and transgender communities. A similar initiative has collected almost 120 thousand signatures. The petition’s author, Bethany Lau, encourages anyone who shares her concerns about Citipointe’s policies, which she considers transphobic and homophobic, to sign. It is important for her and her supporters to convey to the school and the public that such forms of discrimination will not be left unanswered and will be actively opposed.