Protesters in Mississippi call for the governor to veto a discriminatory bill.
The US Supreme Court’s decision to legalise same-sex marriage last year brought on a nationwide — and worldwide — celebration among the LGBT community and its allies. With such a huge step in progress, many assumed things would continue to get better for gender equality in the States. But progress, unfortunately, came with a few stumbling blocks.
Last year, despite the same-sex-marriage legislation, American county clerk Kim Davis refused to issue marriage licences to LGBT couples, as it went against her religious belief. She was jailed for defying the ruling. However, come this year, some of the bills recently passed in the States could allow those following in Davis’ footsteps to walk away freely.
The state of Mississippi passed the Protecting Freedom of Conscience from Government Discrimination Act — commonly referred to as the “religious freedom bill” — earlier this month. When it goes into effect in July, it will allow businesses and organisations to refuse services to same-sex couples if homosexual unions are against their religious views. This means clerks like Kim Davis will be able to deny marriage licences to same-sex couples without repercussion. Many activists are claiming this is lawful discrimination.
In similarly anti-LGBT fashion, North Carolina passed the Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act which mandates that transgender men and women use restrooms according to their gender at birth.
In retaliation, many businesses and individuals have made strong protests against these bills. Canadian singer/songwriter Bryan Adams decided to cancel a concert in Mississippi to show his disagreement with the bill there.
“I cannot in good conscience perform in a state where certain people are being denied their civil rights due to their sexual orientation,” posted Adams on his Facebook page.
Over in North Carolina, big names like Pearl Jam, Cirque du Soleil, Ringo Starr and Bruce Springsteen also cancelled performances to boycott the bill. Companies such as PayPal and Deutsche Bank joined the artists, halting their plans for expansion in the state.
It’s great to see allies taking a stand for the community and effecting change. You don’t need to be gay to show that equality is a cause worth supporting.
But looking from another angle, are we now fighting fire with fire itself? Are we pressuring — inadvertently forcing — people to yield to what we believe is right? Does it work to better people’s understanding, or does it fuel a stronger dose of hate?
“It must be nice to have the liberty to refuse service to those with whom you disagree,” commented a Facebook user on Bryan Adams’ post, expressing sarcasm toward the singer’s action. In the poster’s eyes, the whole scenario is just a case of the pot calling the kettle black.
If people keep denying and refusing one another, when will this ever end? All humans should have equal rights, but our rights should not interfere with others. Of course, ignoring the problem may be worse, but perhaps we should consider finding a more peaceful strategy to achieve equality.
Stories of Transgender Healthcare Discrimination In Thailand by the Asia Pacific Transgender Network
IN SICKNESS AND IN HEALTH
Being sick enough to end up in a hospital is never fun, but when you’re a transgender man or woman, the experience can be even more horrid than normal.
Earlier this month, a video on transgender healthcare discrimination was launched in Bangkok by Asia Pacific Transgender Network and its partnering organisations. It gives the general public a glimpse of what goes on when transgender people visit the hospital.
The participants report feeling uncomfortable and helpless from the unfair treatment they receive from staff members who lack gender-sensitivity and don’t understand what sort of care transgender individuals need. Do they go to a male or female ward? Which changing room should they use? Which restroom? Are they supposed to be called mister or miss? Insecurity, fear and embarrassment are some of the feelings shared by those in the video.
“You [healthcare providers] can ask us patients what we need instead of judging us based on our genitals,” says Jetsada Taesombat, executive director of the Thai Transgender Alliance, in the video.
While no one should be unwelcome at a healthcare facility, it’s undeniable that this is what’s being faced by a portion of our society. The concept of gender dysphoria may not be understood by all; still, everyone can help by keeping an open mind.
Chatchapa Trepkunanon.
THE FAIREST OF THEM ALL
Last Wednesday saw 30 transgender beauty queens take the stage for the Miss Tiffany’s Universe semi-final at EmQuartier. Among them, 22-year-old Chatchapa Trepkunanon — contestant No.17 — won Miss Fit and Firm for her healthy, toned body.
Among the judging panel was Treechada “Poyd” Petcharat, who won both Miss Tiffany’s and Miss International Queen back in 2004. She is now an international star in her own right, with a leading role in the Chinese romantic comedy Insomnia Lover, currently showing in Chinese cinemas.
The final round of the competition will take place at Tiffany’s Show Theatre, Pattaya, on May 13, when the ladies will compete to win the Miss Tiffany’s crown. Live streaming of the event will be available on YouTube.
The largest global beauty pageant for transwomen, Miss International Queen will be held on Nov 9, also in Pattaya. The contest welcomes contestants from across the globe, and the event will be broadcast live in more than 155 countries around the world.
This source first appeared on Bangkok Post Lifestyle.