http://www.queerty.com/news/queer-coppers-forced-out-20071012/
Activists Petitioning President
Oct 12, 2007
It’s a case of first degree discrimination down in Chile, where two coppers say they were forced to quit after colleagues found out they’re gay lovers.
The two policemen, Victor Rivas and Armando Salgado, say superior officers threatened to out them unless they signed resignation forms. Police authorities, in contrast, claim the two resigned voluntarily.
The Movement for Homosexual Integration and Freedom (MOVILH), Chile’s leading pro gay rights group, described the case as an example of “brutal discrimination.”
“Here you have two [coppers who were forced to quit their jobs just because they’re gay. It’s brutal discrimination,” said MOVILH President Rolando Jiménez. “We have proven evidence of similar cases in the past and we know that the Carabineros internal investigative branch has looked into presumed homosexuality among officers, treating such sexual orientation as a crime.”
Jiménez and his allies have already held talks with police officials and plan on discussing the matter with President Michelle Bachelet.
MOVILH also took on coppers in February, when two men said cops verbally abused them for cuddling in public. One officer allegedly said they weren’t born, but were shat: “You are the scum of society You two weren’t born, your mothers shit you out.” Charming.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Scotland: New commissioner pledges action on gay rights and equal pay for women"
http://www.sundayherald.com/news/heraldnews/display.var.1724290.0.new_commissioner_pledges_action_on_gay_rights_and_equal_pay_for_women.php
By Adam Forrest
Scotland has lagged behind England on hate crime, says Morag Alexander
SCOTLAND'S GAY and lesbian communities are not being given the same protection from hate crimes as those in England.
In an interview with the Sunday Herald, the new Scottish head of the Commissioner for Equality and Human Rights (CEHR) said she would push for parity as one of her main priorities.
Morag Alexander will be responsible for the work of the new body from tomorrow, and says she intends to advance the cause of equality issues unique to Scotland.
As well as championing race and gender equality, the CEHR has new responsibilities for sexual orientation, age and religion. Alexander said: "I don't think there is sufficient protection in legislation for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Scotland."
"My collegues in the LGBT lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-gender communities are keen that we have better protection against hate crime. They are not as well protected as they are under the law in England, and that's an area we'll look at."
The CEHR will look after reserved equality matters, while the impending Scottish Commission for Human Rights will examine rights issues arising from devolved areas. Alexander, who lobbied Scottish MPs in 1997 to have equality issues completely devolved to Scotland, acknowledged the possibility that extra powers could be transferred in future.
She said: "We know the SNP government want to see equal opportunities devolved, but we will be having our own national conversation about it, listening to the communities that make up Scotland. I want to hear what people have to say. If they think changes need to be made, I'm open-minded about it.
"It's really important we establish the CEHR as a credible, independent organsiation. The commission is fundamentally important to the delivery of equality in Scotland."
The new commissioner wants her committee to conduct more research on discrimination relevant to rapidly changing life in Scotland. "We need better statistics and data on a range of Scottish equality issues; that's where we are behind at the moment," she said.
In order to modernise discrimination lawandtomakeitmoreeffective, theWestminstergovernmenthas committedtointroducingasingle equality bill during this parliament. The discrimination law review has proposed a more streamlined legislation. The new commissioner for Scotland was critical, however,ofagreenpaperalready published on proposed legislation. "I found it very disappointing, and the response of the CEHR will be very robust," she said. "We don't think it goes far enough."
As well as wishing to see more anti-racism initiatives in Scottish schools and legislation, and more support for disabled people to allow independent living, Alexander was also firm that more needed to be done to close the gender pay gap.
She said: "The Equal Pay Act was passed in 1970, but we still have this significant pay gap. I'd like to see all employers carrying out pay audits so they can demonstrate either that they don't discriminate or if it throws up evidence, then to put it right."
By Adam Forrest
Scotland has lagged behind England on hate crime, says Morag Alexander
SCOTLAND'S GAY and lesbian communities are not being given the same protection from hate crimes as those in England.
In an interview with the Sunday Herald, the new Scottish head of the Commissioner for Equality and Human Rights (CEHR) said she would push for parity as one of her main priorities.
Morag Alexander will be responsible for the work of the new body from tomorrow, and says she intends to advance the cause of equality issues unique to Scotland.
As well as championing race and gender equality, the CEHR has new responsibilities for sexual orientation, age and religion. Alexander said: "I don't think there is sufficient protection in legislation for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Scotland."
"My collegues in the LGBT lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-gender communities are keen that we have better protection against hate crime. They are not as well protected as they are under the law in England, and that's an area we'll look at."
The CEHR will look after reserved equality matters, while the impending Scottish Commission for Human Rights will examine rights issues arising from devolved areas. Alexander, who lobbied Scottish MPs in 1997 to have equality issues completely devolved to Scotland, acknowledged the possibility that extra powers could be transferred in future.
She said: "We know the SNP government want to see equal opportunities devolved, but we will be having our own national conversation about it, listening to the communities that make up Scotland. I want to hear what people have to say. If they think changes need to be made, I'm open-minded about it.
"It's really important we establish the CEHR as a credible, independent organsiation. The commission is fundamentally important to the delivery of equality in Scotland."
The new commissioner wants her committee to conduct more research on discrimination relevant to rapidly changing life in Scotland. "We need better statistics and data on a range of Scottish equality issues; that's where we are behind at the moment," she said.
In order to modernise discrimination lawandtomakeitmoreeffective, theWestminstergovernmenthas committedtointroducingasingle equality bill during this parliament. The discrimination law review has proposed a more streamlined legislation. The new commissioner for Scotland was critical, however,ofagreenpaperalready published on proposed legislation. "I found it very disappointing, and the response of the CEHR will be very robust," she said. "We don't think it goes far enough."
As well as wishing to see more anti-racism initiatives in Scottish schools and legislation, and more support for disabled people to allow independent living, Alexander was also firm that more needed to be done to close the gender pay gap.
She said: "The Equal Pay Act was passed in 1970, but we still have this significant pay gap. I'd like to see all employers carrying out pay audits so they can demonstrate either that they don't discriminate or if it throws up evidence, then to put it right."
"Peter Tatchell finds that Gibraltar is failing UK and EU human rights standards"
http://www.gibfocus.gi/details_todaysnews.php?id=2826
Peter Tatchell British human rights campaigner was today in attendance at a Press Conference hosted by Equality Rights Group GGR at which he outlined a number of issues which he states he has found during a visit to Gibraltar; these included claims that Gibraltar is failing UK and EU human rights standards, an apparent lack of redress mechanisms and absence of government accountability, and the existence of a number of victims silenced by a climate of intimidation and fear. Tatchell stated: “Many people I have met recalled instances of discrimination, harassment and other abuses. However, they all expressed their unwillingness to report officially or publicly discuss the human rights violations they had suffered, out of fear of retribution from state officials. Some said they feared losing their access to jobs, housing, welfare benefits, medical treatment, student places and educational awards and grants. “Human rights shortcomings are damaging Gibraltar’s reputation internationally, which may discourage some investors and tourists. It could also undermine European support for Gibraltar’s right to self-determination. People are less likely to sympathise with Gibraltar’s right to determine its own future if it has a poor human rights record,” said Mr Tatchell. “The people of Gibraltar are wonderful, but the government appears to be drifting towards autocracy,” he said. Mr Tatchell was invited by GGR to visit Gibraltar on a fact-finding mission to meet local people and give his assessment of the human rights situation. As well as meeting ordinary Gibraltarians and local human rights campaigners, Mr Tatchell met with the leaders of all the political parties, except Peter Caruana, the Chief Minister and head of the governing party, the Gibraltar Social Democrats. While every other party leader met with Mr Tatchell and his host, Felix Alvarez, Peter Caruana refused to meet Mr Tatchell if Mr Alvarez was present. “The Chief Minister’s attitude towards Mr Alvarez was petty and rude. I did not think it was right that Peter Caruana was prepared to meet me, a foreigner, but not one of his own Gibraltarian citizens. This did not strike me as polite or reasonable,” said Mr Tatchell. “Despite the Chief Minister’s snub, I want to thank the people of Gibraltar for their kindness, warmth and hospitality. I have enjoyed my stay and wish the people of Gibraltar well. “I reiterate my strong support for Gibraltar’s right to self-determination. “So far as the human rights situation here is concerned, the conclusions of my fact-finding visit are as follows:
Peter Tatchell – Gibraltar Human Rights Report – 2 October 2007
1. Sexual minorities
Equality and fairness requires that Gibraltar legislate legal recognition and rights for same-sex couples – perhaps modelled on the UK’s Civil Partnership Act 2003 but also – unlike the flawed UK law - making civil partnerships available to heterosexual couples to ensure parity.
• The unequal age of consent for gay men is illegal under the European Convention on Human Rights, to which Gibraltar is required to adhere. Why is the government defying the European Court and refusing to equalise the consent laws?
• Also unlawful under the European Convention are the discriminatory homophobic offences of ‘buggery’, ‘attempted buggery’ and ‘gross indecency.’ The government should scrap these anti-gay laws to ensure that the criminal law does not discriminate on the grounds of sexual orientation.
• Eligibility for affordable housing schemes has been extended to unmarried heterosexual partners but not to unmarried same-sex partners. How can this differential treatment be justified?
• In the absence of legal protection against discrimination in the provision of goods and services, restaurateurs, hoteliers and shop owners are entitled to refuse to serve a gay or lesbian person. When does the government propose prohibit anti-gay discrimination in the provision of goods and services? It has already eliminated such discrimination on the grounds of race and ethnicity. How about also protecting the gay and lesbian citizens of Gibraltar? •
• Why, seven years after its establishment, is GGR one of the very few community organisations that receives no government funding or premises? It is providing a valuable social and community service.
2. Equal Opportunities Commission
• The creation of the EOC is a welcome first step, but its terms of reference have never been made public. Why not? The remit of the EOC is narrowly defined to cover only race equality. It should be extended to cover all discrimination, including discrimination based on gender, age, sexual orientation, disability and religion or belief, possibly along the lines of the UK’s new Commission for Equality and Human Rights.
3. Disabled rights and mental health issues
Why is there is no walking stick or Braille training for the blind or visually impaired?
• The government has promised to build a new Psychiatric Hospital – when does it intend delivering on this promise?
• Disabled people have limited legal protection against discrimination. To remedy this failing, legislation similar to Britain’s Disability Discrimination Act is a priority. It would help safeguard the rights and welfare of disabled Gibraltarians. •
• There is an urgent need for a full independent public inquiry into allegations of abuse at the Dr Giraldi Home. In the meantime, the Police Commissioner should open a new investigation into allegations of criminal misconduct.
4. Media independence
It is highly desirable to establish an independent Press Complaints Commission to safeguard freedom of the press and ensure fair and ethical standards of reporting – with adequate statutory redress for people who have been unfairly maligned by the media. •
• The Gibraltar government announced it will undertake a review of GBC. Why has the government not announced the terms of reference, scope and timetable of this review?
5. Moroccan community
The Moroccan community has raised a number of concerns, including parent’s difficulties in obtaining visas for their children to visit Gibraltar during the summer holidays; the denial of permanent residence rights to people who have lived and worked in Gibraltar for 25 years or more, contrary to Gibraltar’s own laws; and the unfairness of the English-proficiency requirement for residence, given that the government has failed to provide English language training to enable applicants for residence to fulfil this requirement.
6. The drift to autocracy
There are concerns at the way the Chief Minister has taken for himself the very important Ministries of Finance and Justice. This is a very unhealthy concentration of power in the hands of one man, which goes against the British tradition of separation of powers and of checks and balances. The suspension of the Chief Justice, Derek Schofield, combined with the Chief Minister’s assumption of the Justice Minister post, raises questions concerning the independence of the judiciary and the proper separation of powers between the judiciary and the executive. The allied criticisms of the operation of industrial tribunals and their failure to provide swift, fair rulings to appellants – including the fact some claimants have great difficulty in funding their cases. Everyone should be entitled to equal access to justice.
7. Conclusion “There is a human rights deficit in Gibraltar. It is backward and outdated compared to most of Europe. The public mood seems to be in favour of equality and human rights, but legislative action is being thwarted by the government of Peter Caruana. “I do not understand why the Chief Minister is so reluctant to ensure equal and fair treatment for all Gibraltar’s citizens. It would cost him next to nothing and win him much goodwill. “Gibraltar is fantastic. But it is being bought down by the foolish prejudice of its government. “These are my findings and recommendations. It is up to the people and government of Gibraltar to decide which, if any, of these proposals they wish to implement.” For his part Felix Alvarez encouraged the public to vote only for those parties who have clearly committed to their individual needs, saying, “Peter Tatchell is an extraordinary man with an extraordinary track record in human rights. He has been closely interested in issues of human rights in Gibraltar for many years now. But when he recently wrote in The Guardian online he was criticised for speaking ‘from the outside’, a criticism which he accepted. “It was for this reason that I invited Peter to come to Gibraltar and independently meet people from across the community. Something which he has done with untiring vigour over the past 6 days, and which he will briefly be reporting on. “At the same time, as Chairman of Equality Rights Group GGR there are issues which must be addressed directly to fellow Gibraltarians; for Mr Caruana has been in power for 3 terms. 3 terms of office during which time the rights of ordinary Gibraltarians have been slowly but surely eroded. 3 terms of office during which time Mr Caruana has been slowly but surely increasing his own powers over you as a person and over us as a People. “There are many of us in Gibraltar affected by this situation. Do NOT lose hope! Do NOT fail to turn out with your vote on 11 October! If you are undecided, if you are wavering, if you are considering not even voting, or if you are gay, disabled, a pensioner, someone who can’t afford the affordable homes, or you have one of so many different reasons for being unhappy and disgruntled the solution is to make your voice heard. Together, we are NOT a minority. “Together our votes make a very big difference! Vote ONLY for those parties who have clearly committed to you and your needs. With your vote, punish those who have been in power for almost 12 years and who have continued to ignore you! Not only that, get your family and your friends to do the same or at least to give some of their votes to those parties who have clearly committed to helping you! Every vote will help! Again, don’t give up hope: as Gibraltarians who love our country we can make this country be a tolerant, caring and just society. But we have to do it together and in Unity,” said Alvarez.
Peter Tatchell British human rights campaigner was today in attendance at a Press Conference hosted by Equality Rights Group GGR at which he outlined a number of issues which he states he has found during a visit to Gibraltar; these included claims that Gibraltar is failing UK and EU human rights standards, an apparent lack of redress mechanisms and absence of government accountability, and the existence of a number of victims silenced by a climate of intimidation and fear. Tatchell stated: “Many people I have met recalled instances of discrimination, harassment and other abuses. However, they all expressed their unwillingness to report officially or publicly discuss the human rights violations they had suffered, out of fear of retribution from state officials. Some said they feared losing their access to jobs, housing, welfare benefits, medical treatment, student places and educational awards and grants. “Human rights shortcomings are damaging Gibraltar’s reputation internationally, which may discourage some investors and tourists. It could also undermine European support for Gibraltar’s right to self-determination. People are less likely to sympathise with Gibraltar’s right to determine its own future if it has a poor human rights record,” said Mr Tatchell. “The people of Gibraltar are wonderful, but the government appears to be drifting towards autocracy,” he said. Mr Tatchell was invited by GGR to visit Gibraltar on a fact-finding mission to meet local people and give his assessment of the human rights situation. As well as meeting ordinary Gibraltarians and local human rights campaigners, Mr Tatchell met with the leaders of all the political parties, except Peter Caruana, the Chief Minister and head of the governing party, the Gibraltar Social Democrats. While every other party leader met with Mr Tatchell and his host, Felix Alvarez, Peter Caruana refused to meet Mr Tatchell if Mr Alvarez was present. “The Chief Minister’s attitude towards Mr Alvarez was petty and rude. I did not think it was right that Peter Caruana was prepared to meet me, a foreigner, but not one of his own Gibraltarian citizens. This did not strike me as polite or reasonable,” said Mr Tatchell. “Despite the Chief Minister’s snub, I want to thank the people of Gibraltar for their kindness, warmth and hospitality. I have enjoyed my stay and wish the people of Gibraltar well. “I reiterate my strong support for Gibraltar’s right to self-determination. “So far as the human rights situation here is concerned, the conclusions of my fact-finding visit are as follows:
Peter Tatchell – Gibraltar Human Rights Report – 2 October 2007
1. Sexual minorities
Equality and fairness requires that Gibraltar legislate legal recognition and rights for same-sex couples – perhaps modelled on the UK’s Civil Partnership Act 2003 but also – unlike the flawed UK law - making civil partnerships available to heterosexual couples to ensure parity.
• The unequal age of consent for gay men is illegal under the European Convention on Human Rights, to which Gibraltar is required to adhere. Why is the government defying the European Court and refusing to equalise the consent laws?
• Also unlawful under the European Convention are the discriminatory homophobic offences of ‘buggery’, ‘attempted buggery’ and ‘gross indecency.’ The government should scrap these anti-gay laws to ensure that the criminal law does not discriminate on the grounds of sexual orientation.
• Eligibility for affordable housing schemes has been extended to unmarried heterosexual partners but not to unmarried same-sex partners. How can this differential treatment be justified?
• In the absence of legal protection against discrimination in the provision of goods and services, restaurateurs, hoteliers and shop owners are entitled to refuse to serve a gay or lesbian person. When does the government propose prohibit anti-gay discrimination in the provision of goods and services? It has already eliminated such discrimination on the grounds of race and ethnicity. How about also protecting the gay and lesbian citizens of Gibraltar? •
• Why, seven years after its establishment, is GGR one of the very few community organisations that receives no government funding or premises? It is providing a valuable social and community service.
2. Equal Opportunities Commission
• The creation of the EOC is a welcome first step, but its terms of reference have never been made public. Why not? The remit of the EOC is narrowly defined to cover only race equality. It should be extended to cover all discrimination, including discrimination based on gender, age, sexual orientation, disability and religion or belief, possibly along the lines of the UK’s new Commission for Equality and Human Rights.
3. Disabled rights and mental health issues
Why is there is no walking stick or Braille training for the blind or visually impaired?
• The government has promised to build a new Psychiatric Hospital – when does it intend delivering on this promise?
• Disabled people have limited legal protection against discrimination. To remedy this failing, legislation similar to Britain’s Disability Discrimination Act is a priority. It would help safeguard the rights and welfare of disabled Gibraltarians. •
• There is an urgent need for a full independent public inquiry into allegations of abuse at the Dr Giraldi Home. In the meantime, the Police Commissioner should open a new investigation into allegations of criminal misconduct.
4. Media independence
It is highly desirable to establish an independent Press Complaints Commission to safeguard freedom of the press and ensure fair and ethical standards of reporting – with adequate statutory redress for people who have been unfairly maligned by the media. •
• The Gibraltar government announced it will undertake a review of GBC. Why has the government not announced the terms of reference, scope and timetable of this review?
5. Moroccan community
The Moroccan community has raised a number of concerns, including parent’s difficulties in obtaining visas for their children to visit Gibraltar during the summer holidays; the denial of permanent residence rights to people who have lived and worked in Gibraltar for 25 years or more, contrary to Gibraltar’s own laws; and the unfairness of the English-proficiency requirement for residence, given that the government has failed to provide English language training to enable applicants for residence to fulfil this requirement.
6. The drift to autocracy
There are concerns at the way the Chief Minister has taken for himself the very important Ministries of Finance and Justice. This is a very unhealthy concentration of power in the hands of one man, which goes against the British tradition of separation of powers and of checks and balances. The suspension of the Chief Justice, Derek Schofield, combined with the Chief Minister’s assumption of the Justice Minister post, raises questions concerning the independence of the judiciary and the proper separation of powers between the judiciary and the executive. The allied criticisms of the operation of industrial tribunals and their failure to provide swift, fair rulings to appellants – including the fact some claimants have great difficulty in funding their cases. Everyone should be entitled to equal access to justice.
7. Conclusion “There is a human rights deficit in Gibraltar. It is backward and outdated compared to most of Europe. The public mood seems to be in favour of equality and human rights, but legislative action is being thwarted by the government of Peter Caruana. “I do not understand why the Chief Minister is so reluctant to ensure equal and fair treatment for all Gibraltar’s citizens. It would cost him next to nothing and win him much goodwill. “Gibraltar is fantastic. But it is being bought down by the foolish prejudice of its government. “These are my findings and recommendations. It is up to the people and government of Gibraltar to decide which, if any, of these proposals they wish to implement.” For his part Felix Alvarez encouraged the public to vote only for those parties who have clearly committed to their individual needs, saying, “Peter Tatchell is an extraordinary man with an extraordinary track record in human rights. He has been closely interested in issues of human rights in Gibraltar for many years now. But when he recently wrote in The Guardian online he was criticised for speaking ‘from the outside’, a criticism which he accepted. “It was for this reason that I invited Peter to come to Gibraltar and independently meet people from across the community. Something which he has done with untiring vigour over the past 6 days, and which he will briefly be reporting on. “At the same time, as Chairman of Equality Rights Group GGR there are issues which must be addressed directly to fellow Gibraltarians; for Mr Caruana has been in power for 3 terms. 3 terms of office during which time the rights of ordinary Gibraltarians have been slowly but surely eroded. 3 terms of office during which time Mr Caruana has been slowly but surely increasing his own powers over you as a person and over us as a People. “There are many of us in Gibraltar affected by this situation. Do NOT lose hope! Do NOT fail to turn out with your vote on 11 October! If you are undecided, if you are wavering, if you are considering not even voting, or if you are gay, disabled, a pensioner, someone who can’t afford the affordable homes, or you have one of so many different reasons for being unhappy and disgruntled the solution is to make your voice heard. Together, we are NOT a minority. “Together our votes make a very big difference! Vote ONLY for those parties who have clearly committed to you and your needs. With your vote, punish those who have been in power for almost 12 years and who have continued to ignore you! Not only that, get your family and your friends to do the same or at least to give some of their votes to those parties who have clearly committed to helping you! Every vote will help! Again, don’t give up hope: as Gibraltarians who love our country we can make this country be a tolerant, caring and just society. But we have to do it together and in Unity,” said Alvarez.
Ireland: ‘Hypocrisy’ criticism on same sex laws
http://www.examiner.ie/irishexaminer/pages/story.aspx-qqqg=ireland-qqqm=ireland-qqqa=ireland-qqqid=44031-qqqx=1.asp
01 October 2007
‘Hypocrisy’ criticism on same sex laws
By Niall Murray, Education Correspondent
THE Equality Authority has accused the Government of hypocrisy over its commitment to same sex couples when it refuses to change laws that allow schools to fire gay teachers. A section of the 1998 Employment Equality Act gives schools and other religious-run institutions exemption from discrimination laws where it takes action to prevent an employee from undermining its religious ethos. The issue has been a matter of concern for teachers in recent years, particularly at primary level where more than nine out of 10 schools are run by the Catholic Church and other religious denominations.
Equality Authority chief executive Niall Crowley said it remains unclear how severe the interpretation of the act might be unless a case is taken to the Equality Tribunal or the courts, challenging its use. “We already know that it’s a strong dissuasive influence on gay and lesbian people from taking cases and, therefore, whether or not they’re raising the issue, it must be changed,” he said. “The Programme for Government makes a commitment to rights for same sex couples but that commitment means nothing for people who work in schools or other religious institutions,” said Mr Crowley. He said all that was needed was a simple amendment to clarify that the section of the act cannot be used to discriminate against someone on grounds of family status or sexual orientation. However, he said, the Government has already overlooked this recommendation when it amended part of the legislation in the 2004 Equality Act. A spokesperson for the Lesbian Gay and Bisexual Teachers group, set up in the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation, said: “The law copper-fastens discrimination but it could equally affect teachers who are divorced or who are not married but living with a partner because their lifestyle could be in conflict with the church’s teaching.” “It’s easier now for a student to talk about being gay but a teacher can’t do so. If the Government introduces civil partnerships I would marry my partner of more than 20 years, but if I seek leave from work to do so my job could be at risk,” said the woman, who teaches in a small rural school. The matter was raised at the Irish Vocational Education Association annual congress last week, where a delegate asked if it is realistic for teachers to expect adequate protection from equality legislation if they come out about their sexuality. “In more than 30 years of teaching, I’ve only ever heard three female students say they were lesbian and never yet heard a male student say they were gay. But I never expect to hear a teacher tell colleagues they are gay or lesbian,” he said.
01 October 2007
‘Hypocrisy’ criticism on same sex laws
By Niall Murray, Education Correspondent
THE Equality Authority has accused the Government of hypocrisy over its commitment to same sex couples when it refuses to change laws that allow schools to fire gay teachers. A section of the 1998 Employment Equality Act gives schools and other religious-run institutions exemption from discrimination laws where it takes action to prevent an employee from undermining its religious ethos. The issue has been a matter of concern for teachers in recent years, particularly at primary level where more than nine out of 10 schools are run by the Catholic Church and other religious denominations.
Equality Authority chief executive Niall Crowley said it remains unclear how severe the interpretation of the act might be unless a case is taken to the Equality Tribunal or the courts, challenging its use. “We already know that it’s a strong dissuasive influence on gay and lesbian people from taking cases and, therefore, whether or not they’re raising the issue, it must be changed,” he said. “The Programme for Government makes a commitment to rights for same sex couples but that commitment means nothing for people who work in schools or other religious institutions,” said Mr Crowley. He said all that was needed was a simple amendment to clarify that the section of the act cannot be used to discriminate against someone on grounds of family status or sexual orientation. However, he said, the Government has already overlooked this recommendation when it amended part of the legislation in the 2004 Equality Act. A spokesperson for the Lesbian Gay and Bisexual Teachers group, set up in the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation, said: “The law copper-fastens discrimination but it could equally affect teachers who are divorced or who are not married but living with a partner because their lifestyle could be in conflict with the church’s teaching.” “It’s easier now for a student to talk about being gay but a teacher can’t do so. If the Government introduces civil partnerships I would marry my partner of more than 20 years, but if I seek leave from work to do so my job could be at risk,” said the woman, who teaches in a small rural school. The matter was raised at the Irish Vocational Education Association annual congress last week, where a delegate asked if it is realistic for teachers to expect adequate protection from equality legislation if they come out about their sexuality. “In more than 30 years of teaching, I’ve only ever heard three female students say they were lesbian and never yet heard a male student say they were gay. But I never expect to hear a teacher tell colleagues they are gay or lesbian,” he said.
Monday, September 17, 2007
"Singapore May Allow Oral, Anal, But Not For Gays"
http://www.queerty.com/sex/singapore-may-allow-oral-anal-but-not-for-gays-20070917/
Singapore’s government’s getting sexual today as a new bill looks to strike down laws banning oral and anal sex. While it may sound like a great development for all people, the gays are getting left out in the cold:
Oral and anal sex in private between consenting heterosexual adults would be legalized under a bill introduced in Singapore’s parliament on Monday.
Under the city-state’s first major penal code amendments in 22 years, a section criminalizing “carnal intercourse against the order of nature” would be repealed.…But while the bill takes a softer line on heterosexual sex, a ban on acts of “gross indecency” between males will remain.
The proposed bill highlight’s Singapore’s strained perception of progress. Though willing to liberalize laws for straight people, the cultural zeitgeist still leans right. The government flexed its muscle earlier this year by cracking down on gay pride festivities.
Though gays are still held down politically, they may be getting a boost in the education system. About 110 teachers, administrators and students met last month to discuss the gays’ place in the school system. One out teacher commented:
Many life lessons are transmitted to students through this form of bonding… When parents require gay teachers not to talk about their personal lives, it curtails their ability to connect with their students, and to be themselves in the classroom.…The younger (these children) are exposed to these issues, the fewer hang-ups they may have when they grow up, and they may be more certain about who they really are.
Not all gay teachers agree, however. Another attendee says he’d rather not get into the logistics of his love life:
I’d prefer not to impose my personal values or beliefs on them, while they are still relatively immature… Being too open at this point will only cause unnecessary anxiety within the school, and among parents.
All the drama’s apparently too high a price to pay for real education.
Singapore’s government’s getting sexual today as a new bill looks to strike down laws banning oral and anal sex. While it may sound like a great development for all people, the gays are getting left out in the cold:
Oral and anal sex in private between consenting heterosexual adults would be legalized under a bill introduced in Singapore’s parliament on Monday.
Under the city-state’s first major penal code amendments in 22 years, a section criminalizing “carnal intercourse against the order of nature” would be repealed.…But while the bill takes a softer line on heterosexual sex, a ban on acts of “gross indecency” between males will remain.
The proposed bill highlight’s Singapore’s strained perception of progress. Though willing to liberalize laws for straight people, the cultural zeitgeist still leans right. The government flexed its muscle earlier this year by cracking down on gay pride festivities.
Though gays are still held down politically, they may be getting a boost in the education system. About 110 teachers, administrators and students met last month to discuss the gays’ place in the school system. One out teacher commented:
Many life lessons are transmitted to students through this form of bonding… When parents require gay teachers not to talk about their personal lives, it curtails their ability to connect with their students, and to be themselves in the classroom.…The younger (these children) are exposed to these issues, the fewer hang-ups they may have when they grow up, and they may be more certain about who they really are.
Not all gay teachers agree, however. Another attendee says he’d rather not get into the logistics of his love life:
I’d prefer not to impose my personal values or beliefs on them, while they are still relatively immature… Being too open at this point will only cause unnecessary anxiety within the school, and among parents.
All the drama’s apparently too high a price to pay for real education.
"Swedish government funds gay rights group"
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-5466.html
17th September 2007 10:41
Tony Grew
Sida, The Swedish Agency for International Development Cooperation, a government agency under the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, has granted 1.9 million Swedish crowns (approximately 200,000 euros) to RFSL, the Swedish federation for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender rights.1.1 million Swedish crowns (116,000 euros) will go towards supporting ILGA, the International Lesbian and Gay Association.The money will finance two ILGA board meetings with the world board, participation in regional ILGA conferences, support the ILGA transgender secretariat and the women's secretariat and the part-time employment of a fundraiser.The funds donated to ILGA through the RFSL will make it easier to ILGA to co-ordinate its international work and strengthen ILGA's ability to achieve its goals.Earlier this year The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs granted money to RFSL for financing of the first Pan African ILGA meeting in Johannesburg.ILGA is a world-wide network of national and local groups dedicated to achieving equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) people everywhere. Founded in 1978, it now has more than 560 member organisations. Every continent and around 90 countries are represented. ILGA member groups range from small collectives to national groups and entire cities.
17th September 2007 10:41
Tony Grew
Sida, The Swedish Agency for International Development Cooperation, a government agency under the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, has granted 1.9 million Swedish crowns (approximately 200,000 euros) to RFSL, the Swedish federation for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender rights.1.1 million Swedish crowns (116,000 euros) will go towards supporting ILGA, the International Lesbian and Gay Association.The money will finance two ILGA board meetings with the world board, participation in regional ILGA conferences, support the ILGA transgender secretariat and the women's secretariat and the part-time employment of a fundraiser.The funds donated to ILGA through the RFSL will make it easier to ILGA to co-ordinate its international work and strengthen ILGA's ability to achieve its goals.Earlier this year The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs granted money to RFSL for financing of the first Pan African ILGA meeting in Johannesburg.ILGA is a world-wide network of national and local groups dedicated to achieving equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) people everywhere. Founded in 1978, it now has more than 560 member organisations. Every continent and around 90 countries are represented. ILGA member groups range from small collectives to national groups and entire cities.
"Taipei gays protest Nicaragua homophobia"
http://www.gay.com/news/article.html?2007/09/14/5
Gay activists in Taipei protested outside the Nicaraguan embassy in their city Thursday as part of an international campaign against the Latin American country's sodomy law.
The campaign, helmed by Amnesty International Mexico, calls on 10 groups around the world to fight homophobia, encouraged by the Catholic Church's steady stronghold.
Emily Wu, an Amnesty International Taiwan member, told the Taipei Times that Nicaragua is the only Latin American country with a law that prohibits sex between people of the same sex.
"That is not only a violation of the Nicaraguan Constitution, but also of international human rights," Wu said.
Nicaragua enacted an anti-sodomy law in 1992, stating that "anyone who induces, promotes, propagandizes or practices sexual intercourse between persons of the same sex commits the crime of sodomy and shall incur one to three years' imprisonment." (The Advocate)
Gay activists in Taipei protested outside the Nicaraguan embassy in their city Thursday as part of an international campaign against the Latin American country's sodomy law.
The campaign, helmed by Amnesty International Mexico, calls on 10 groups around the world to fight homophobia, encouraged by the Catholic Church's steady stronghold.
Emily Wu, an Amnesty International Taiwan member, told the Taipei Times that Nicaragua is the only Latin American country with a law that prohibits sex between people of the same sex.
"That is not only a violation of the Nicaraguan Constitution, but also of international human rights," Wu said.
Nicaragua enacted an anti-sodomy law in 1992, stating that "anyone who induces, promotes, propagandizes or practices sexual intercourse between persons of the same sex commits the crime of sodomy and shall incur one to three years' imprisonment." (The Advocate)
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