LGBTQ+ and Intersex Rights: Significant Developments in Kenya…

Intersex individuals in Kenya seek to gain legitimacy by separating from the larger queer community as intersex is recognized as a third gender. The U.S. Supreme Court blocked a funding freeze, while claims of LGBTQ+ funding in Lesotho were disputed. Hungary restricts Pride parades amid backlashes against diversity initiatives affecting Toronto Pride. Protests for LGBTQ+ rights are scheduled in the UK, and various nations face challenges regarding inclusion and rights enforcement, emphasizing the ongoing fight for equity.

In Kenya, intersex individuals are increasingly seeking to separate themselves from the broader queer community in an effort to gain legitimacy for their identity as a third gender. According to Dennis Wamalwa, a commissioner at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights and a board member of the Intersex Persons Society of Kenya, this disconnection aims to bolster their recognition without the controversies associated with queer identities. Intersex has now been officially recognized in recent birth notification certificates in Kenya.

The U.S. Supreme Court voted five to four to reject the Trump administration’s request to maintain a freeze on billions of dollars in foreign aid approved by Congress. The justices in the majority included Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Elena Kagan, Sonia Sotomayor, and Ketanji Brown Jackson. The court’s ruling does not specify a timeline for the release of funds, allowing the administration to continue disputing the matter in lower courts.

Despite claims made by former President Trump regarding an $8 million funding allocation to Lesotho LGBTQ+-rights organization The People’s Matrix, the organization stated it did not receive this aid. Spokesperson Tampose Mothopeng characterized Trump’s assertions as unfounded, while Lesotho’s Foreign Affairs Minister expressed astonishment at Trump’s remarks. The organization indicates it has not received any U.S. grants.

In Hungary, government officials are imposing restrictions on the Budapest Pride parade, claiming it should not dominate public spaces, citing “child protection” concerns. This clampdown comes in the wake of previous anti-LGBTQ policies. Neela Ghoshal from Outright International criticized these measures, stating that they undermine the essence of Pride itself, which celebrates LGBTQ identity and visibility.

President Trump’s backlash against diversity and inclusion initiatives appears to have repercussions in Canada, as several major sponsors have withdrawn from the Toronto Pride festival. Executive Director Kojo Modeste confirmed the loss of significant sponsorships, including from Nissan Canada, which cited a reevaluation of its marketing strategy as the reason for its withdrawal.

A protest is scheduled outside the UK Parliament on March 31 in memory of U.S. drag queen Heklina, aimed at addressing concerns about alleged homophobia within the Metropolitan Police. The protest, organized by drag performer Peaches Christ, is expected to feature speeches from fellow drag artists and aims to advocate for awareness against discrimination within policing.

The U.S. has formally withdrawn from The U.N. LGBTI Core Group, an entity aimed at supporting LGBTQ+ rights globally. This group is co-chaired by Chile and the Netherlands and includes various member states committed to promoting these rights. The Biden administration had previously emphasized LGBTQ+ advocacy as part of its foreign policy agenda.

Edinburgh Women’s Aid has decided to restrict access to its services, excluding trans women and non-binary individuals. The organization clarified that its policy change is based on its specific stance on sex and gender, contrasting with the inclusive position of Scottish Women’s Aid, which continues to support all women, including those in same-sex relationships.

In Turkey, draft legislation proposes to enshrine “biological sex” in law and criminalize the promotion of LGBTQ+ rights. The document suggests stiff penalties for conducting same-sex marriages, reflecting the government’s recent declared intent to promote traditional family values under the “Year of the Family” initiative.

In Spain, a Coruña has honored Senegalese immigrants Ibrahima Diack and Magatte N’Diaye for their courageous act in defending a gay man from a vicious attack in 2021. The city recognized these men with formal titles and plaques for their bravery, as they were the only individuals to intervene during the assault, which ultimately led to the victim’s death amidst a larger crowd recording the event.

At the 50th César Awards in Paris, Emilia Pérez garnered notable recognition, receiving awards for Best Film and Director among others. The event featured Henry Deneuve honoring Ukraine and an honorary tribute to Julia Roberts, while notable film figures competed for various accolades.

The article underscores significant developments in LGBTQ+ and intersex rights across various nations. It highlights the ongoing struggles for recognition and support amidst discrimination and political obstacles. In Kenya, distinctions within the intersex community are being made to enhance legitimacy, while challenges in both the U.S. and internationally reflect broader societal conflicts regarding LGBTQ+ rights. The push for inclusivity and recognition continues to face both support and resistance worldwide, impacting local and global landscapes for these communities.

Original Source: windycitytimes.com