On this day in 2013, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed legislation commonly known as the “anti-gay propaganda law”, officially titled For the Purpose of Protecting Children from Information Advocating a Denial of Traditional Family Values.
The law restricts the distribution of information relating to LGBTIQA+ identities in settings where it may be accessible to individuals under the age of 18.
Human rights organisations and international observers reported that the legislation was followed by an increase in anti-LGBT incidents, as well as arrests based on alleged breaches of the law, sometimes involving disputed or unclear evidence.
In 2022, the law was expanded to apply to all age groups. In 2023, Russian authorities designated what they described as the “international LGBT movement” as a terrorist organisation.
In 2017 German politicians voted in favour of marriage equality
German same-sex couples won the rights to marry and adopt children on this day in 2017.
The bill passed by 393 to 226, with four abstentions. In the days leading up to the vote Chancellor Angela Merkel surprised people by allowing a free vote on the issue.
Merkel had been a long standing opponent to marriage equality, and was seen to push the vote through in an attempt to avoid it being an election issue later in the year. Merkel’s party was successful at the polls and was able to establish a new coalition to keep them in power. She stood down before the 2021 election after four terms in government.
Today is Queer Youth of Faith Day
QYF Day is a national celebration that honors and uplifts LGBTQ+ youth who hold faith as a meaningful part of their identity. It’s a day to affirm their courage, amplify their voices, and remind them they are beloved.
