LGBTQ+ rights Archives - Page 4 of 4

Penguin Random House Introduces Freedom of Expression Award Amidst Rising Book Bans

A New Initiative to Celebrate Literary Freedom

In a bold response to the increasing censorship in the United States, Penguin Random House has introduced the Freedom of Expression award. This new literary prize is designed to celebrate the power of books and the importance of free expression, particularly in the face of growing book bans across the nation.

Empowering High School Voices

Targeted at high school students, the award challenges young writers to pen essays about a banned book that significantly impacted their lives. The prize, set at $10,000 (£8,168), is aimed at students who plan to enter university in 2024. This initiative is a direct response to the escalating attempts to censor diverse voices in literature.

Rise in Book Censorship

Recent reports from Pen America reveal a concerning 33% increase in book bans in US public schools over the past year. Notably, the books most frequently targeted for bans are those authored by women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Popular banned books include Toni Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye,” Maia Kobabe’s “Gender Queer: A Memoir,” and Stephen Chbosky’s “The Perks of Being a Wallflower.”

Highlighting the Significance of Diverse Voices

The award, in partnership with the non-profit We Need Diverse Books, seeks to honor and elevate the diverse perspectives of young individuals. Caroline Richmond, executive director of the non-profit, emphasized the importance of celebrating the written word and the diverse experiences it represents, especially during a time when diverse narratives are increasingly under threat.

Focus on Marginalized Communities

Penguin Random House points out that books by and about LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities are disproportionately affected by the recent wave of censorship. The publisher underscores the belief that “books change lives” and the necessity for everyone to see themselves represented in literature.

Broader Creative Writing Awards Program

The Freedom of Expression award is part of Penguin Random House’s broader Creative Writing Awards program, which also includes categories for memoir, poetry, fiction/drama, and spoken word. Each category carries a $10,000 (£8,168) prize, with winners receiving not only financial support but ongoing mentorship opportunities.

Application Details

The competition, which opened on October 16, will run until January 16, or until 1,000 applications are received. This award presents a unique opportunity for high school students to express themselves and stand up against censorship while emphasizing the enduring power and necessity of diverse voices in literature.

©equalityvoices.org

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“Bi” by Julia Shaw: A Comprehensive Exploration of Bisexuality

Challenging Stereotypes and Embracing History

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Julia Shaw’s latest book, “Bi,” presents a thorough investigation into the multifaceted world of bisexuality. It traverses the realms of science, culture, and history, moving from deeply political insights to refreshingly unique perspectives. Shaw, a criminal psychologist, confronts the long-standing misconception of bisexuality as a modern fad, tracing its acknowledgment back to at least the 1890s.

Breaking Down the Evolution of Bisexuality

Shaw points out the media’s periodic portrayal of bisexuality as a “new” phenomenon, citing examples from different eras where bisexuality was labeled as trendy. Her book is a determined effort to bring serious academic research on bisexuality to the forefront, asserting that bisexuality is not a transient trend but a consistent and complex aspect of human sexuality.

From Academic Jargon to Social Media Lingo

The book skillfully navigates between academic language and relatable social media speak, making complex concepts accessible to a broader audience. Shaw’s narrative includes scientific terms alongside everyday language, demonstrating her expertise in psychology and her adeptness at communicating intricate ideas in an engaging manner.

Political and Personal Undertones

Shaw begins her book with bold statements that challenge conventional views on sexuality. She discusses her own journey as a bisexual individual, including starting a bisexual research group and completing a master’s degree in queer history. Her personal and professional experiences add depth to the book’s exploration of bisexuality.

A Journey Through Science and Culture

Shaw’s book is a vibrant tour through various aspects of bisexuality. She celebrates the sexual behaviors of animals like bonobos and starfish, using them to draw parallels with human sexuality. The book also delves into studies on human behavior, suggesting that sexual preferences can be more fluid than traditionally thought.

Addressing Bisexual Visibility and Discrimination

Shaw highlights the challenges faced by bisexual individuals, including discrimination from both straight and gay communities. She cites studies revealing the professional and social consequences of openly identifying as bisexual and emphasizes the need for greater bisexual visibility to protect their rights.

The Complexity of Sexual Identity Labels

While Shaw meticulously defines bisexuality, she uses terms like LGBTIQ, LGBT+, and queer interchangeably without specific definitions. This approach mirrors the fluidity she advocates for in understanding sexuality, but it also reflects the complexity and sometimes the ambiguity of sexual identity labels.

Queer Theory as a Foundation

Shaw provides a succinct explanation of queer theory, an academic discipline that informs her work. She posits that bisexuality challenges conventional sexual binaries, prompting a broader reevaluation of assumptions about sex and relationships.

Conclusion: A Catalyst for Broader Conversations

“Bi” by Julia Shaw is not just a book about bisexuality; it’s a catalyst for conversations that could lead to greater understanding and empathy for people across the spectrum of sexual identities. Shaw’s exploration of bisexuality serves as a window into a world where traditional boundaries are questioned, and new perspectives are embraced.

©equalityvoices.org

Bisexual

Lithuania Aims to Repeal “Anti-Gay Propaganda” Law

In a decisive move towards equality, the Lithuanian government is preparing to repeal a law from 2009 that has been widely criticized for its resemblance to Russian “anti-gay propaganda” legislation. Known for restricting minors’ access to content about same-sex marriage and LGBTQI+ issues, the law has been under fire for what many perceive as its homophobic undertones and infringement on freedom of expression.

Controversial Provisions Under Scrutiny

While the ‘Law on the Protection of Minors from Negative Public Information’ does not directly name the LGBTQ+ community, its controversial provisions have sparked a debate about its impact on family values and the definition of marriage. The Justice Ministry is now focused on amending these contentious aspects of the law.

International Pressure and Human Rights

Prompted by a ruling from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) which found the law in violation of free expression rights, Lithuania is taking steps to align with international human rights standards. The ECHR’s involvement came after the law was used to censor content from a children’s book discussing same-sex relationships, questioning the government’s stance on the promotion of different family structures.

Political Tensions and Societal Views

The proposed legal changes come against a backdrop of considerable political and societal friction. With more than 70% of Lithuanians reportedly opposed to same-sex partnerships, the push for equality is a contentious issue within the coalition government. The Freedom Party’s leader, Aušrinė Armonaitė, has expressed concern about the potential fallout if the amendment does not pass, emphasizing the party’s commitment to true freedom in Lithuania.

Community Experiences and Perceptions

Despite resistance, there are signs of a shifting perspective. A survey by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) highlighted that harassment of the LGBT community in Lithuania is higher than the EU average, yet pride celebrations and public demonstrations reflect a growing acceptance. Indeed, recent years have seen a perceived decrease in prejudice and intolerance towards LGBTI individuals in Lithuania, a trend that contrasts with the broader EU statistics.

The Path Forward

As Lithuania confronts its stance on LGBTQI+ rights, the world watches to see if it will follow through with its commitment to discard a law that many have deemed outdated and discriminatory. With the proposed amendment, Lithuania seeks not just to amend its legal code but to make a profound statement about the kind of society it strives to be—one that embraces diversity and champions the rights of all its citizens.

Legislation

King’s Speech Sidesteps Conversion Therapy Ban: Promised Legislation Absent

The UK’s Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has expressed its dissatisfaction with the government’s failure to include a ban on conversion therapy in the King’s Speech. This annual address is a crucial moment when the government outlines its legislative agenda, and the absence of the ban has raised concerns among advocates for LGBTQ+ rights.

Promises Unfulfilled

The government’s commitment to prohibiting conversion therapy, a controversial practice aimed at changing an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity, was first promised in 2018. With the next general election on the horizon, the legislation’s future remains uncertain.

Government’s Deliberation

Despite the EHRC’s push for the legislation to be prioritized, which included a formal communication earlier in the year, a government spokesperson has stated that they are “carefully considering” the issue, indicating a delay in the process that has spanned over 18 months.

The Controversial Practice

Conversion therapy, often referred to by its critics as “reparative therapy” or “gay cure therapy,” encompasses a range of practices from prayer and talk therapies to more extreme and abusive methods such as exorcism and physical violence. Health institutions like NHS England and the Royal College of Psychiatrists have condemned all forms of conversion therapy as unethical and harmful.

Campaigners’ Disappointment

Advocates who have long awaited a legislative ban feel let down by the government’s omission. They argue that the failure to act is a “frightful negligence,” allowing what they view as abusive practices to persist.

Political U-Turns and Debate

The path to a conversion therapy ban has been marred by political reversals and resignations from the disbanded LGBT advisory panel, with accusations of the government’s sluggishness in addressing LGBT rights. Internal disagreements within the Conservative Party over the implications of such a ban on freedom of expression and religious rights are thought to be behind the impasse.

Opposition to the Ban

While many call for the ban, some groups, including the Christian Institute, oppose it, arguing that it could infringe upon free speech and religious freedoms.

Government’s Stance

In response to the backlash, a government spokesperson reiterated the position that harmful practices associated with conversion therapy are unacceptable, emphasizing the complexity of the issue and the need for a thoughtful approach to any potential ban.

Looking Ahead

As the government navigates the contentious debate surrounding conversion therapy, the LGBTQ+ community and its allies await decisive action. The conversation continues to unfold, reflecting the tension between protecting individual rights and ensuring freedom of belief and speech in a modern, diverse society.

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