Equality Australia’s Post

🌈 Big win for LGBTQ+ rights in Asia! 🌏 Thailand just became the first country in Southeast Asia and one of the few in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage after the Thai king signed it into law. 👑 This is a huge step for marriage equality, following years of LGBTQ+ activism. The law, which comes into effect in 120 days, removes gender-specific language in marriage and extends adoption and inheritance rights to same-sex couples. 👨❤️👨👩❤️👩 As a relationship counsellor and clinical sexologist in Singapore, this is a heartwarming milestone. It shows how far we’ve come in the region toward acceptance and equality, but also how much work remains. While Thailand has led the way, many in Asia still face traditional and conservative barriers. It’s a reminder that love and equality should know no boundaries. 🏳️🌈 Let's continue supporting the movement for equal rights in our part of the world. https://lnkd.in/g_TGtHk8

Dear All, I am thrilled to share that my latest research paper has been published in the International Journal of Law Management and Humanities! In this paper, I’ve reviewed the evolving landscape of same-sex marriage, its societal implications, and the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. This paper also advocates for the implementation of a UCC as a transformative step toward achieving marriage equality and safeguarding individual rights. I hope my paper contributes to the ongoing debates and discussions on this topic. https://lnkd.in/dc4RqGCH

Thailand has become the first Southeast Asian nation to legalise equal marriage, in a move that has been hailed a “well-deserved win”. 🎉🏳️🌈 The new law describes a marriage union as one between two individuals, rather than a man and a woman. It will allow LGBTQ+ couples to adopt, have equal access to marital tax savings, rights to property and the ability to decide medical treatment when their partner is incapacitated. ✅⚖️ Read more below! ⬇️ #LGBTQrights #Thailand

LGBTQ Cheers! 400 Members of Parliament Vote to Pass the Equal Marriage Law, Granting Basic Rights to the Rainbow Community for Individuals Aged 18 and Above to Engage and Marry, Emphasizing the Beginning of Equality in Society. On (March 27), the House of Representatives meeting, presided over by Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, entered the agenda to consider the draft amendment to the Civil and Commercial Code (No....) B.E…. or the Equal Marriage Law, which was completed by the special committee and was under consideration in the second and third readings. Subsequently, it must be presented for the Senate's consideration and then announced. The legislative process in the Parliament has three main stages: first, the proposal of the bill; second, the consideration by the House of Representatives and the Senate; and third, the proclamation. Laws issued by the Parliament that undergo such a standard process are generally referred to as Acts (พ.ร.บ.).

I’ve heard the fears from many in the LGBTQ+ community about what the future might hold for marriage equality under a new administration. Let me say this clearly: there is no evidence to suggest that anyone’s right to marry is in jeopardy. Here’s what we know: 1. Marriage Equality is Settled Law The Supreme Court’s decision in Obergefell v. Hodges (2015) made marriage equality the law of the land. Overturning this would require a lengthy legal process, and there’s no movement in that direction. 2. Broad, Bipartisan Support In 2022, Congress passed the Respect for Marriage Act, which ensures federal recognition of same-sex marriages. This Act had support from both sides of the aisle, reflecting how far we’ve come in protecting these rights. 3. No Action Against Marriage Equality During his 2016 campaign, Trump himself stated that Obergefell was settled law, and his administration did not act to challenge it. There’s no indication that this stance has changed. 4. Misinformation Creates Fear Much of the concern stems from fear-driven narratives, often pushed by media outlets with political agendas. It’s important to separate fact from fiction and not let misinformation divide us. As a conservative, I—and everyone I know—support the unions that bring love and stability into our communities. Marriage equality is not under threat, and I believe we all share a common goal: to uphold the rights and dignity of every individual. Let’s move forward with love and understanding, not fear. We’re stronger together.

🌈 Historic Milestone for LGBTQ Rights in Southeast Asia 🌈 In an unprecedented move, Thailand has become the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. The Thai Senate's overwhelming approval of the marriage equality bill marks a significant leap towards inclusivity and equality! - With 130 of 152 senators voting in favor, this decision is a testament to the tireless efforts of activists and the evolving societal attitudes in Thailand. - This bill not only provides comprehensive legal, financial, and medical rights to same-sex couples but also amends the Civil and Commercial Code to ensure equal protection under the law. - Thailand now joins Taiwan and Nepal as the third country in Asia to embrace marriage equality. Read more about this historic development and its implications for LGBTQ rights in our latest blog post. Let’s celebrate this monumental step towards a more inclusive society! Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/eczZgpw2 #LGBTQRights #MarriageEquality #Thailand #SocialProgress #Inclusion

As the nation grapples with the #2024election results and its broader outcomes, MAP is highlighting Tuesday’s important wins for LGBTQ legal equality in three states: #California, #Colorado, and #Hawaii. 🌈 In California, voters repealed a constitutional amendment known as Proposition 8 originally passed by voters in 2008. 🌈 In Colorado, voters repealed a 2006 constitutional amendment defining marriage as between one man and one woman. The state still has a statutory ban on marriage, but that ban is unenforceable because of a 2015 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that legalized marriage equality nationwide. 🌈 In Hawaii, voters repealed a 1998 constitutional amendment that, while it did not ban marriage for same-sex couples, nonetheless gave the state legislature the explicit authority to do so. Learn more and view our real-time map in our new brief. ⬇️ https://lnkd.in/erGJJKGW

Today we are celebrating Progress in Human Rights🌈🌏 Yesterday, Thailand’s Senate voted 130-4 to pass a same-sex marriage bill, following the overwhelming approval from the lower house in March. This historic decision makes Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia and the second in Asia to recognize same-sex relationships. The Marriage Equality Act makes crucial amendments to Thailand’s Civil and Commercial Code, replacing “men and women” and “husband and wife” with “individuals” and “marriage partners.” This is a crucial step forward for human rights and inclusivity!🌟 In the midst of international political turmoil and extreme polarization, Thailand's progressive move is a powerful reminder that positive change is possible. It highlights the importance of perseverance in the fight for equality and human rights. The Marriage Equality Act now awaits royal assent from King Vajiralongkorn and will come into effect 120 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette. This act stands as a beacon of progress for LGBT rights across the Asia-Pacific region and the world. I am looking forward to seeing how this development unfolds in Thailand and its impact on the region as a whole. https://lnkd.in/dAWkeB6J

ICYMI: Ballot measures could remove same-sex marriage bans from state constitutions: Voters in several states are slated to weigh in on ballot measures that would repeal unenforceable same-sex marriage bans in their respective state constitutions as the 2024 election approaches. #LGBT #Samesexmarriage #2024election #California #Colorado #Hawaii #ObergefellvHodges

🌈A Legal and Social Call for LGBTQ+ Marriage Equality in India🌈 Thrilled to share my Article published in Lawpinion, exploring the intricate legal and societal landscape surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and marriage in India.🏳️🌈 In our nation, where "family" is revered, the law presents a paradox: it acknowledges diverse relationships yet denies same-sex couples the recognition they deserve. Despite judgments affirming their right to choose partners under Article 21, the latest Supreme Court verdict (Supriyo & Ors. vs. Union of India, 2023) stopped short of explicitly enforcing the right to marry. However, hope emerges in the Court’s recommendation to establish a committee exploring separate legislation for LGBTQ+ marriage rights—a step toward harmony and inclusion. The Hon’ble Chief Justice rightly noted, “Marriage is not a stagnant and unchanging institution.” But legal reforms are just the beginning. Societal attitudes must evolve alongside the law. As Indians, we take pride in our rich heritage. Isn’t it time we celebrate diversity in all its forms, embracing love in its truest essence? 📖 Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gKE5VBm6 Let’s spark the conversation on difficult topics, share your thoughts below! #LGBTQ #MarriageEquality #Inclusion #Lawpinion #Diversity #Equality