Hong Kong made a ruling to recognize same-sex couples, a man was arrested in the United Kingdom in connection with a homophobic attack, and a legal service for LGBTQ Victorians opens.
Hong Kong Rules In Favor of Same-Sex Couples
The top court in Hong Kong ruled in favor of legal recognition for same-sex couples after judges called for an alternative framework to marriage.
This is a partial victory for the city’s LGBTQ community since, according to The Guardian, the court’s declaration rejected appeals against current laws that restrict marriage to heterosexual couples and refuse to recognize overseas same-sex marriages.
“First, such recognition is required to meet basic social needs similar to those experienced by different-sex couples in stable relationships. Secondly, the absence of legal recognition has been seen to be essentially discriminatory and demeaning to same-sex couples,” said Justices Joseph Fok, RAV Ribeiro and Patrick Keane.
The ruling gives the government two years to establish a system.
UK Man Arrested In Connection To Homophobic Attack
Photo via Google Maps.
Police arrested a 19-year-old man in the U.K. who, they say, is connected to the homophobic attack where two men were stabbed outside a nightclub.
The two victims were hospitalized and have since been discharged.
According to The Guardian, the suspect was arrested in London on suspicion of two counts of grievous bodily harm.
“I know the concern and distress this horrific incident has caused among the LGBT+ community and I want to reassure them – and Londoners as a whole – that a team of officers is working diligently to investigate,” said Vanessa Britton from the Metropolitan police.
She continued, “The two victims have been informed and continue to be supported by our officers, including our dedicated LGBT+ community liaison officer.”
Legal Service For LGBT Victorians Opens
Photo via Jaclyn Symes, Facebook.
Q+Law, a new service for LGBTQ Victorians who are in need of legal assistance, launched at the Victorian Pride Centre in Australia.
“Q+Law aims to create a safe and supportive environment for all LGBTIQA+ Victorian accessing legal support. Our program aims to alleviate barriers LGBTIQA+ people face in accessing support by fostering an inclusive, non-judgmental and LGBTIQA+ affirming environment,” said Ryan Hsu, the Director of Q+Law Service.
According to Star Observer, the service will operate from Australia’s first purpose-built LGBTQ community hub is St. Kilda. Additionally, there will be outreach programs in Carlton and Reservoir and statewide referrals.
The service has already helped over 80 LGBTQ Victorians since its founding in July.
The services include help with discrimination and harassment cases, support in areas such as family violence, criminal law, tenancy law, and more.
“Every Victorian has a role to play in making Victoria a safe and welcoming place for all LGBTIQ+ people,” said Jaclyn Symes, a member for Northern Victoria. “I am proud that we are ensuring inclusive and accessible services are available to meet the diverse needs of LGBTIQ+ people, families and communities.”
