Global Queer News

January 1-8, 2021

State of the World…

This week demonstrated the disaggregated nature of queer politics.

In positive news, India gave us reason to be optimistic as the government drafted a five-year plan for the welfare of transgender people and continues its debate on marriage equality. Gay hockey players are coming out in droves, China’s Chengdu activists remain resilient, and individuals changing their registered gender in Japan are rising at a record pace.

Disastrously, Egypt is employing a new strategy for criminalizing queerness by trying cases under cybercrime and online morality laws. Within our community, gay U.S. partygoers’ boat sank after skirting COVID-19 protocols by attending a men-only, clothing-optional party cruise.

Overall, steady advances by strong individuals defined this week. However, it’s important to highlight the disastrous effects toxic privilege and power has within our community. We must continue to live through the values of accountability, sustainability, and transformation in order to fight together against oppression.

Global Queer News is an initiative of The Global Center’s Media Unit. Each week, we gather the top seven queer stories from around the world and synthesize them for your knowledge and action.