Scare tactics in Houston
Houston, Texas, will vote Nov 3 on a controversial civil rights ordinance that includes protections for gay and trans people. Opponents are attacking the ordinance by saying it would allow “men in women’s bathrooms,” a claim that pollsters say is working to frighten Houston voters. US LGBT rights groups are pouring advertising money into the city trying to rescue the ordinance.
Read more at the Washington Post.
Northern Ireland votes in vain for marriage equality
While Northern Ireland’s parliament voted narrowly to approve same-sex marriage Nov 2, opponents used a special parliamentary rule to scupper the decision. Members of parliament can demand a majority not only of the house, but also of each party vote in favour of a bill for it to pass — a rule designed to protect minorities in a deeply divided country. Northern Ireland remains the last part of the UK without marriage equality.
The trope of evil bisexuals
Bisexuals have made great strides in representation on TV, writes Spencer Kornhaber at The Atlantic, but are still often portrayed as power hungry and ruthless. From House of Cards’ Frank Underwood to The Royals’ Cyrus Henstridge, bisexual characters often sleep their way to the top, trade sex for favours or are just downright untrustworthy.
LGBT Israelis look for civil marriage option
An Israeli LGBT group has asked the country’s high court to allow civil marriages between same-sex couples. Israel’s current complex legal system delegates marriages to religious institutions, none of which will agree to recognize same-sex couples. Civil marriage could allow same-sex couples to sidestep religious authority.
Thousands gather for Taipei Pride, call for marriage
The 13th annual Taipei Pride parade drew an estimated 80,000 people to the streets, as Taiwan approaches an election that could bring the country closer to equal marriage. Same-sex marriage has emerged as a visible issue in the election for the first time, with candidates taking both sides of the debate.
Read more at the Taipei Times.
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