Tag: gay rights
U.S. Supreme Court Justices appear skeptical of Defense of Marriage Act
The Court heard the second of two cases regarding same-sex marriage this week. Legal scholar Emily Bazelon says the Justices' comments indicate that the Court could strike down the law which prevents legally married same-sex couples from receiving federal benefits....
U.S. Supreme Court appears cautious of broad gay marriage ruling
The U.S. Supreme Court heard the first of two cases regarding same-sex marriage on Tuesday. California's ban known as Proposition 8 came under scrutiny. But one legal scholar says the Court might find a way to avoid issuing a national ruling on the right for same-sex couples to marry....
In Uruguay, raft of political changes defy political labels
Uruguay's new left-wing government has introduced a host of new laws, regarding marijuana, abortion and same-sex marriage. They're hot topics of discussion and, surprisingly, often the reactions people have defy political labels....
Boy Scouts reconsider ban on gay scouts
The Boy Scouts of America reaffirmed their ban on gay members and scout leaders last year. But now leaders of the organization are rethinking their position with formal action coming perhaps as early as next week. But some former scouts are questioning how changes will take place....
First LGBT-friendly mosque opens in France
In Europe and the United States, Muslims, including a group called Muslims for Progressive Values, are pushing for making mosques more inclusive -- to serve all people. Some say this could be the beginning of a reformation of Islam....
Russian Orthodox Church stakes out assertive role on social issues
Russia's Orthodox Church is trying to become more relevant in Russian society. Though some 70 percent of Russians say they believe in the Orthodox Church, less than one percent go to church even once a month....
A small step forward for LGBT rights in Jamaica
The lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in Jamaica faces many challenges. They're discriminated against, outlawed and even attacked and sometimes killed. But a national political leader has finally made a comment that seeks to draw a line on the discrimination....
Myanmar's Taung Byone festival brings some acceptance for LGBT community
In Myanmar, the only time the country's gay community can find acceptance is during the annual Taung Byone festival. At other times of year they're forced to the edges of society, but during Taung Byone they are the gatekeepers to the spirit world....
Proposed gay marriage amendment forces Somali immigrants to confront taboo
In November, Minnesota voters will decide on a proposed constitutional amendment that reinforces the state's ban on same-sex marriage. The upcoming election has forced many Somali immigrants to come to terms with their beliefs on gay marriage, an issue many consider taboo. ...
French Prime Minister announces France will legalize gay marriage by 2013
French Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault confirmed that France will legalize marriage and adoption for gay couples by 2013, following through on an election promise made by President Francois Hollande....
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