LGBTQIA+ Pride

Pride serves as a powerful symbol of LGBTQIA+ identity, visibility, and solidarity. It creates spaces where individuals can express their true selves, free from judgment or discrimination. Pride events foster a sense of community, support, and empowerment for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies.

It is essential to recognize that LGBTQIA+ Pride encompasses a wide spectrum of identities and experiences. The “+” symbolizes the inclusivity of additional sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions that may not be explicitly represented by the letters in the initials. The ongoing evolution and expansion of the LGBTQIA+ acronym demonstrate the commitment to inclusivity and recognition of diverse identities within the community.

History of Pride

The history of LGBTQIA+ Pride is a testament to the resilience, activism, and progress of the LGBTQIA+ community. It is marked by significant events, milestones, and the collective efforts of individuals fighting for equality, visibility, and acceptance. Here is a detailed history of LGBTQIA+ Pride:

Pride serves as a powerful symbol of LGBTQIA+ identity, visibility, and solidarity. It creates spaces where individuals can express their true selves, free from judgment or discrimination. Pride events foster a sense of community, support, and empowerment for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies.

It is important to recognize that LGBTQIA+ Pride encompasses a wide spectrum of identities and experiences. The “+” symbolizes the inclusivity of additional sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions that may not be explicitly represented by the letters in the initials. The ongoing evolution and expansion of the LGBTQIA+ acronym demonstrate the commitment to inclusivity and recognition of diverse identities within the community.

History of Pride

The history of LGBTQIA+ Pride is a testament to the resilience, activism, and progress of the LGBTQIA+ community. It is marked by significant events, milestones, and the collective efforts of individuals fighting for equality, visibility, and acceptance. Here is a detailed history of LGBTQIA+ Pride:

1. Pre-Stonewall Era:

– Prior to the 20th century, LGBTQIA+ individuals faced widespread societal discrimination and persecution due to prevailing social norms and legal restrictions.

– Hidden spaces, such as bars and clubs, provided havens for LGBTQIA+ individuals to gather and express themselves, albeit in secrecy.

2. The Stonewall Riots (1969):

– The Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in New York City, was frequently targeted by police raids and harassment.

– On June 28, 1969, a police raid at the Stonewall Inn sparked a series of spontaneous demonstrations, protests, and clashes between LGBTQIA+ patrons and the police.

– The uprising, fueled by frustration, anger, and a desire for change, lasted several days and is considered a turning point in LGBTQIA+ rights activism.

3. Rise of LGBTQIA+ Activism:

– In the aftermath of the Stonewall Riots, LGBTQIA+ activists and organizations began to form and mobilize.

– The Gay Liberation Front (GLF) and the Gay Activists Alliance (GAA) emerged as prominent activist groups, advocating for equal rights and societal acceptance.

4. First Pride Marches:

– On June 28, 1970, in commemoration of the first anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, the Christopher Street Liberation Day March took place in New York City.

– This march marked the birth of the modern Pride movement and has since become an annual event in many cities worldwide.

5. Expansion of Pride:

– Throughout the 1970s, Pride marches and celebrations expanded beyond New York City, spreading across the United States and internationally.

– LGBTQIA+ communities organized Pride events to demand equality, visibility, and an end to discrimination.

6. Harvey Milk and San Francisco Pride:

– Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, played a significant role in LGBTQIA+ activism.

– Milk’s election to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977 and subsequent assassination in 1978 propelled the LGBTQIA+ rights movement and inspired Pride events in San Francisco.

7. AIDS Crisis and Activism:

– In the 1980s and 1990s, the LGBTQIA+ community faced the devastating impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

– LGBTQIA+ activists, such as the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP), fought for increased research, access to treatment, and an end to discrimination and stigmatization.

8. Pride as a Global Movement:

– LGBTQIA+ Pride events began to emerge globally, with cities and countries organizing their own marches, parades, and celebrations.

– Pride became a symbol of LGBTQIA+ visibility, community, and demands for equal rights and acceptance worldwide.

9. Legal and Social Progress:

– Over time, significant legal advancements were made for LGBTQIA+ rights, varying by country and region.

– These advancements include the decriminalization of homosexuality, anti-discrimination protections, recognition of same-sex relationships, gender identity recognition, and the repeal of discriminatory laws.

10. Ongoing Activism and Intersectionality:

– LGBTQIA+ activism continues to address intersecting issues, such as racism, transphobia, ableism, and economic inequality, recognizing the importance of an inclusive and diverse movement.

– Pride events have evolved to incorporate a wider range of LGBTQIA+ identities and experiences

What is Pride Event and why is it important in the LGBTQIA+ community?

The Pride Parade is a prominent event within the LGBTQIA+ community. It is a colorful, festive, and inclusive celebration that brings together LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies to promote visibility, equality, and acceptance. Here’s why the Pride Parade is important:

1. Visibility and Representation: Pride Parades provide a platform for LGBTQIA+ individuals to be visible, celebrate their identities, and express their true selves openly. By marching proudly through the streets, participants showcase the diversity of the community, challenging stereotypes and promoting acceptance.
2. Community Building: Pride Parades create a sense of community and belonging. They bring LGBTQIA+ individuals together, fostering connections, support networks, and a shared celebration of identity and resilience. It is a time to connect with like-minded people, build relationships, and combat feelings of isolation.
3. Advocacy and Activism: Pride Parades are rooted in the history of LGBTQIA+ activism. They serve as a platform to advocate for equal rights, challenge discrimination, and promote social and political change. The visibility of Pride Parades helps raise awareness about LGBTQIA+ issues and pushes for legal protections, policy changes, and societal acceptance.
4. Celebrating Achievements and Progress: Pride Parades commemorate the milestones and achievements of the LGBTQIA+ rights movement. They honor the activists, allies, and community members who have fought for equality and helped create positive change. Pride Parades serve as a reminder of the progress made while acknowledging that there is still work to be done.
5. Empowerment and Pride: Pride Parades instill a sense of empowerment and pride within the LGBTQIA+ community. They create spaces where individuals can celebrate their identities without fear of judgment or discrimination. Pride Parades foster self-acceptance, self-love, and confidence, empowering individuals to embrace their authentic selves.
6. Education and Awareness: Pride Parades serve as educational opportunities for the wider community. They help raise awareness about LGBTQIA+ history, rights, and challenges, fostering understanding and empathy. Pride Parades often include educational components, such as workshops, panels, and informational booths, providing resources and information to attendees.
7. Allyship and Solidarity: Pride Parades are inclusive events that welcome allies and supporters. They allow people outside the LGBTQIA+ community to demonstrate their support, show solidarity, and stand against discrimination. Pride Parades promote a sense of unity and allyship, emphasizing that LGBTQIA+ rights are human rights.

Overall, the Pride Parade is a powerful and significant event within the LGBTQIA+ community. It serves as a visible, joyous, and empowering demonstration of LGBTQIA+ identities, rights, and achievements. It plays a vital role in fostering social change, building community, and promoting a more inclusive and accepting society for all.

Same-sex Marriages in Nepal

Same-sex marriage is not currently legalized in Nepal, but the country has undergone significant changes in recognizing and protecting the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Here is a brief history of the legal developments related to LGBTQIA+ rights in Nepal:

1. 2007 Supreme Court Decision:

– In 2007, the Supreme Court of Nepal issued a landmark decision in the case of Sunil Babu Pant v. Nepal Government.

– The court recognized the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals, directing the government to eliminate discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

– The decision also called for the formation of a committee to study and recommend changes to laws regarding same-sex marriage, adoption, and other LGBTQIA+ rights.

2. Recognition of Third Gender:

– In 2007, Nepal became one of the first countries in the world to legally recognize a third gender category.

– The government introduced the “O” (Other) category in citizenship certificates, passports, and other official documents to accommodate individuals who do not identify as male or female.

3. Constitutional Recognition:

– In 2015, Nepal adopted a new constitution that explicitly included provisions protecting the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals.

– The constitution prohibited discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and recognized the right to equality and non-discrimination for all citizens.

4. Progress in Gender Identity Recognition:

– In 2018, Nepal introduced a “Gender Marker” category on citizenship certificates, allowing individuals to self-identify their gender as male, female, or others.

– This move aimed to improve the recognition and protection of transgender and non-binary individuals.

5. Supreme Court order to recognize the Same-Sex Marriage

–  On May 2, a landmark decision was handed down by a Division Bench of the Supreme Court of Nepal, comprising Justices Hari Prasad Phuyal and Tanka Bahadur Moktan. The court ordered the government of Nepal to officially recognize same-sex marriage, marking a significant stride toward equality in the country. The impetus for this legal battle came from Abhdeep Pokharel, a Nepali citizen, and his spouse Tobias Volz, who hails from Germany. As a gay couple, they filed a writ petition of mandamus and certiorari against the Home Ministry and the Department of Immigration (DoI) of Nepal. Their grievance centered on denying a non-tourist visa to Volz, a direct consequence of Nepal’s lack of recognition for marital equality.

Abhdeep Pokharel and his German spouse Tobias Volz’s fight for the right

The couple’s journey began on October 19, 2018, when they solemnized their marriage in accordance with German law. Their union was officially registered at the registration office in Malsch, Kreis Karlsruhe, Germany. However, when Volz applied for a non-tourist visa to Nepal on July 19, 2022, the application was summarily rejected due to the absence of legal recognition for same-sex marriage in Nepal. Pokharel’s subsequent attempts to procure a marriage certificate from local authorities were met with refusal, citing existing laws that permit marriage solely between individuals of different genders.

Volz made another attempt to secure a visa on August 19, 2022, accompanied by a written petition and a copy of a significant court order from October 23, 2017. Volz’s application for a non-tourist visa was once again rejected. Consequently, the petitioners filed a writ petition seeking a mandamus or any other appropriate order to compel the respondents to issue a non-tourist visa to Volz promptly. The Supreme Court, in the ongoing case, acknowledged that the petitioners had provided a marriage registration certificate attested by the German Embassy. This certificate confirmed their marriage, which was conducted and registered according to German law.

As a result, the Department of Immigration’s insistence on the submission of documents under the National Civil Code, 2017, and the National Registration Act was deemed unreasonable. The Supreme Court concluded that the legal issues at hand were similar. Consequently, the Department of Immigration was directed to grant Tobias Volz a non-tourist visa. The court strongly condemned the inappropriate and unlawful actions of the Immigration Department.

It further highlighted the presence of binary terminologies in various Nepali laws, which pose challenges for LGBTQ+ community members in asserting their rights. The court ruled that all discriminatory statutes, including those related to rape, marriage, and inheritance, should be amended to ensure equality. Additionally, the court emphasized that the country’s failure to recognize same-sex marriages was a violation of the Nepali Constitution. Volz was entitled to a visa under the rights guaranteed by Articles 16 (right to live with dignity), 17 (right to freedom), 18 (right to equality), and other provisions of the constitution.

With the recent ruling of the Supreme Court, Nepal is now on the cusp of joining the ranks of nations that embrace marriage equality. The decision not only represents a significant victory for Pokharel and Volz but also sets a powerful precedent for LGBTQ+ rights in the country. As Nepal takes steps toward progress and inclusivity, it is hoped that this ruling will foster a more equal and accepting society for all its citizens.

The country continues to progress in ensuring equality and protection for LGBTQIA+ individuals. It is important to note that laws can evolve and change over time, so it is advisable to consult reliable sources or official government websites for the most current information on LGBTQIA+ rights in Nepal.