Di-ve: British Archbishop calls gay marriage 'Orwellian'

http://di-ve.com/news/british-archbishop-calls-gay-marriage-orwellian
31 | 12 | 2012 at 11:13; Article By: di-ve.com news editorial@di-ve.com

Leader of the Catholic church in England and Wales, Archbishop of Westminster Vincent Nichols has described the Government's plans for gay marriage as 'Orwellian' in his Christmas Day message. He urged his followers to send letters to wheir MP's opposing plans for gay marriange.

Times: Gay couples tie the knot in Maine

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121229/world/gay-couples-tie-the-knot-in-maine.451189
Saturday, December 29, 2012, 13:36 by PA



After waiting years and seeing marriage rights nearly awarded and then retracted, gay couples in Maine's largest city did not have to wait a moment longer than necessary to wed, with licences issued at the stroke of midnight as the law went into effect.

Times: Is Pope Benedict a homophobe?

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121229/blogs/is-pope-benedict-a-homophobe.451188
Saturday, December 29, 2012, 09:58 by Fr Joe Borg

The Pope’s speech to the members of the Roman Curia on December 21 brought with it accusations that the Pope is a homophobe. It is not the first time that he had been so accused; in my opinion, mistakenly.

It is said that the word homophobe was coined by George Weinberg, a psychologist, in the 1960s. It describes a person who fears or hates homosexuals and homosexuality. It includes an attitude of contempt for homosexuals and is evidenced in hostile behaviour such as discrimination and violence. Some say that homophobes are closet gays.

BBC News: Uruguay gay marriage vote postponed until April

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-20849647
27 December 2012 Last updated at 07:57 GMT

Gay rights campaigners criticised the delay in voting on the bill

Uruguay's Senate has delayed until April a vote on a bill that would legalise gay marriage, amid calls for further analysis of the proposal.

The Marriage Equality Law, approved on 11 December by the lower house, was backed by the governing coalition.

Gay Star News: Dutch minister slams Pope for gay hate Christmas message

Netherlands foreign affairs minister Frans Timmermans blasts head of the Catholic Church for gay marriage attack

http://www.gaystarnews.com/article/dutch-minister-slams-pope-gay-hate-christmas-message241212
24 DECEMBER 2012 | BY MATTHEW JENKIN

Dutch foreign affairs minister Frans Timmermans has slammed the Pope for attacking gays in his annual Christmas message.

The head of the Catholic Church is calling on faith groups to unite against same-sex marriage, saying the legislation which is being passed around the world is a threat to the survival of the human race.

Times: Love at Confused.com

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121225/blogs/love-at-confused-com.450900
Tuesday, December 25, 2012, 11:45 by Alison Bezzina

I tried to wait it out, I really, really did.

I tried with all my might to let the Christmas season go by without commenting about the Pope’s latest attack on gay marriage....you know the one in which he unceremoniously says that gays are people who manipulate their God-given gender to suit their sexual choices.

Malta Today: Homophobic bullying still a problem in schools, MEPs told

Homophobic bullying in Maltese schools remains a problem that deserves attention, a report for MEPs mapping out “an EU roadmap for equality” states.http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/Homophobic-bullying-still-a-problem-in-schools-MEPs-told-20121224

Tuesday 25 December 2012 - 16:59 by Matthew Vella

Homophobic bullying: a problem in schools.

The 2012 study, prepared for members of the European Parliament in the civil liberties committee, claims a negative attitude towards homosexuality can be found in relation to teachers and schools, even in countries where the general attitude is more positive.

Times: Gay marriage plans in England and Wales a 'shambles'

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121225/world/gay-marriage-plans-in-england-and-wales-a-shambles.450898
Tuesday, December 25, 2012, 09:21 by PA



The leader of the Roman Catholic Church in England and Wales has described the Government's plans for gay marriage as undemocratic and a "shambles".

Archbishop of Westminster Vincent Nichols made the comments in an interview with the BBC.

Times: Gay marriage pioneer Adams dies

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121224/world/gay-marriage-pioneer-adams-dies.450750
Monday, December 24, 2012, 07:48 by PA

Richard Adams, who used the altar and the courtroom to help begin the push for gay marriage 40 years before it reached the centre of America's consciousness has died.

Mr Adams, 65, died on December 17 after a brief illness in the Hollywood home he shared with Tony Sullivan, his partner of 43 years, his lawyer Lavi Soloway said.

Independent: Pope takes anti Gay Marriage stance to a new level

http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2012-12-21/news/pope-takes-anti-gay-marriage-stance-to-new-level-565673989/

Friday, 21 December 2012, 15:43 , by Nicole Winfield, Associated Press

UPDATE 1

The pope pressed his opposition to gay marriage Friday, denouncing what he described as people manipulating their God-given identities to suit their sexual choices — and destroying the very "essence of the human creature" in the process.

Times: Court delays ban on gay therapy

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121222/world/court-delays-ban-on-gay-therapy.450475
Saturday, December 22, 2012, 09:04 by PA

A US appeal court has blocked a first-of-its-kind California law that bans therapy aimed at turning gay youngsters straight.

A three-judge panel of the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals issued an emergency order putting the law on hold until the court could hear full arguments on whether the measure was constitutional.

All Out: We can't believe it

Wow. We're blown away. When All Out members step up they really go ALL OUT. In less than 5 days, more than 2,000 of you helped answer the challenge to unlock an amazing $50,000 to fight anti-gay laws worldwide. We can't tell you how much impact this will have in the fight to legalize love – everywhere.

Malta Star: Pope says gay unions 'harm peace'

http://www.maltastar.com/dart/20121216-pope-says-gay-unions-harm-peace
Sunday, 16 Dec 2012, 06:02

Pope Benedict XVI came under fire from gay-rights campaigners on Friday for suggesting that attempts to give gay unions the same status as marriages between men and women pose a threat to justice and peace.

"There is also a need to acknowledge and promote the natural structure of marriage as the union of a man and a woman in the face of attempts to make it juridically equivalent to radically different types of union," the pope said in his message for World Day of Peace 2013, which was presented by the Holy See on Friday.

Times: Rights and wrongs in cohabitation Bill

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121217/opinion/Rights-and-wrongs-in-cohabitation-Bill.449874
Monday, December 17, 2012 by Joanne Vella Cuschieri

Cohabitation and LGBT rights have been a topic of intense discussion after the Government, following pressure by other political parties and organisations, submitted a draft law to be discussed in Parliament.

This law creates further discrimination between citizens simply based on their sexual orientation

- Joanne Vella Cuschieri

Lately, I was invited to discuss the subject on a TV programme. As soon as I noted this on Facebook, I was asked what link I had with these subjects; whether I was part of the LGBT community and what contribution I could give if I were not. I was outraged at such questions.

Cohabitation rights do not only concern persons from the LGBT community but also heterosexual couples who, for some reason or other, never got married, perhaps not out of choice. Being a practising lawyer within the Family Court I daily encounter persons who are not married but have problems with their partners. So far, the law provides for a dispute resolution system only in those cases where the children’s rights are involved. Otherwise, the law completely omits any rights or duties pertaining to these people during or after the termination of their cohabitation.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS

Wishing all the readers a peaceful, serene and healthy time.

Thank You.

DR ING PATRICK ATTARD

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=jX7p8_z7rjc

MGRM: Christmas Drinks

Malta Gay Rights Movement (MGRM)

Christmas Drinks

Come Celebrate this year's achievements with

 

MGRM, WE ARE, aditus, DRACHMA, DRACHMA Parents, LGBT Labour @ Tom Bar this Sunday 23rd December from 17:30 till 21:00.

 

 

Season's Greetings

 

 

Thank you for your support throughout this past year.

MGRM

YouTube: Gay Parents Bashed

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zhl9MLno424



What would you do if you saw gay parents berated by a waitress?

Independent UK: British Government to Legalize Same Sex-Marriage

http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2012-12-11/news/british-government-to-legalize-same-sex-marriage-523075587/



Tuesday, 11 December 2012, 18:40

The British government announced Tuesday that it will introduce a bill next year legalizing gay marriage — but banning the Church of England from conducting same-sex ceremonies.

Equalities minister Maria Miller said the legislation would authorize same-sex civil marriages, as well as religious ceremonies if religions decide to "opt in."

BBC News: Uruguay gay marriage bill approved in lower house

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-20691378
12 December 2012 Last updated at 09:07 GMT

Gay rights campaigners now hope the bill will pass in the Senate

Uruguay has moved closer to legalising gay marriage after the lower house of Congress approved a law making all marriages equal.

The measure, which was passed by a wide margin, now goes to the Senate where it is expected to be approved.

Times: Cohabitation among 15 Bills put on hold

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121211/local/Cohabitation-among-15-Bills-put-on-hold.449085
Tuesday, December 11, 2012 by Christian Peregin



Cohabitants and whistleblowers will have to wait until the next legislature for the legal protection they have been promised for years, due to the outcome of last night’s failed Budget vote.

The Bills to regulate cohabitation and grant protection to whistleblowers are among 15 legislative changes, which will be dropped due to the expected dissolution of Parliament.

Malta Today: Cyrus Engerer’s homosexuality ‘put off’ minister

Former PN activist says minister refused to employ him within his ministry due to his sexual orientation.

http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/Cyrus-Engerer-s-homosexuality-put-off-Minister-20121208
Sunday 9 December 2012 - 17:30 by Julia Farrugia


Labour activist Cyrus Engerer.

Former Sliema deputy mayor and PN activist Cyrus Engerer says that three years ago he was refused employment with an unnamed minister because he is gay.

In an interview with Sunday newspaper Illum, Cyrus Engerer recalls resigning from his original job to start working within the particular ministry.

Times: Washington gays licensed to wed

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121207/world/washington-gays-licensed-to-wed.448618
Friday, December 7, 2012, 09:26 by PA



Hundreds of same-sex couples across Washington state collected licences as a voter-approved law legalising gay marriage took effect.

Advocate: Op-ed: Reluctant Social Commentary of a Newly HIV-Positive 20-Something

What runs through the mind of a 28-year-old newly diagnosed with HIV?
http://www.advocate.com/health/here-inspire/2012/12/03/reluctant-social-commentary-newly-hiv-positive-20-something?page=0,0
BY TYLER CURRY, DECEMBER 03 2012 6:00 AM ET 

 In the modern homo-arena of fabulous fundraisers, extravagant vacations and Cross-fit courses, the conversation of HIV has almost become associated with bad social etiquette.  After all, the insidious connotations associated with HIV have seemed to all but fade away. We can all remember the horror stories about funeral after funeral, with half of the faces at Sunday brunch disappearing within a matter of months...but that was then.  Now, our Sunday brunch tables are full of pretty faces, salacious bedtime stories, mimosas and high T-cell counts, regardless of status.

Advocate: Angela Merkel Says No to Repairing Inequality

Newly reelected by her party and seeking a third term as chancellor, Angela Merkel walked away from a chance to lead on treating same-sex couples equally with straight couples in tax law.

http://www.advocate.com/politics/marriage-equality/2012/12/05/german-chancellor-angela-merkel-says-no-equality-gay-couples
BY LUCAS GRINDLEY, DECEMBER 05 2012 12:36 AM ET



That's a no.

In this photo taken by the AFP, German Chancellor Angela Merkel holds up a voting card on Tuesday and sides with those in her party, the Christian Democratic Union, who decided against treating same-sex couples the same as straight couples under tax law.

Guardian: Washington same-sex marriage signed into law

Law takes effect on Thursday when gay and lesbian couples can collect wedding certificates and licences from county auditors
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/dec/06/washington-same-sex-marriage-law
Associated Press in Washington
Thursday 6 December 2012 03.48 GMT

Govenor Chris Gregoire signs Referendum 74, a citizen-passed measure that legalises same-sex marriage in Washington Photograph: Elaine Thompson/AP

Govenor Chris Gregoire has signed into law a measure that legalises same-sex marriage in Washington state, which now joins several other US states that allow gay and lesbian couples to wed.

Gregoire and Secretary of State Sam Reed certified the election on Wednesday afternoon, as they were joined by couples who plan to wed and community activists who worked on the campaign supporting gay marriage.

Leħen is-Sewwa: Editorjal: Attakk fuq il-valuri Nsara

1.12.12 ?

Il-konferma tal-għażla tal-Kummisarju Ewropew Malti Tonio Borg din id-darba ma kenitx waħda faċli. Il-pajjiż kollu għadda minn mument xejn sabiħ. Mument fejn b'mod jew ieħor kien attakkat il-valur Nisrani. Dak il-valur li l-parti l-kbira tagħna, il-Maltin u l-Għawdxin, tant għadna nħaddnu b'imħabba. B'għozza.

[Kompli aqra...]

Times: US gay marriage fight is taken to high court

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121130/world/US-gay-marriage-fight-is-taken-to-high-court.447568
Friday, November 30, 2012 by Chantal Valery



The US Supreme Court meets today to decide how it will handle challenges to the status of gay marriages, at a time when thousands of American same-sex couples have already tied the knot.

Guardian: Record numbers of UK gay men test positive for HIV

http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2012/nov/29/uk-gay-men-test-positive-hiv-record-numbers

• Almost half of new cases are gay or bisexual males
• Up to 10,000 unaware of their infection, says study

Sarah Boseley, health editor
The Guardian, Thursday 29 November 2012

Regular HIV testing for at-risk groups is strongly recommended by health organisations and charities, as starting treatment early is crucial. Photograph: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

The number of gay men being diagnosed with HIV has reached a record high in the UK, according to the Health Protection Agency (HPA).

Libya Herald: Nawasi brigade pledges to hand arrested ‘homosexuals’ over to Ministry of Justice

http://www.libyaherald.com/2012/11/27/nawasi-brigade-pledges-to-hand-arrested-homosexuals-over-to-ministry-of-justice/
Tripoli, 27 November 2012 By George Grant.

A picture purporting to be of the arrested men posted on the Nawasi Brigade’s Facebook page. Today, the post had been deleted.

Twelve alleged homosexuals arrested by one of Tripoli’s most powerful brigades will be handed over to the Ministry of Justice, a senior member of the group has told the Libya Herald.

YouTube: Mgr Charles Scicluna talks about Gays [on Xarabank]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycJ6oJPZML0&feature=youtu.be



Xarabank 23.11.2012 by Peppi Azzopardi

Mgr Charles Scicluna, Malta's new Auxiliary Bishop talks about the dignity of gay persons, homophobia, the recognition of same-sex relationships by the State and the ordination of gay priests.

Independent: How on Earth are we going to get a woman PM?

http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2012-11-25/opinions/how-on-earth-are-we-going-to-get-a-woman-pm-433356804/
Sunday, 25 November 2012, 09:15 , by Pamela Hansen

So the Maltese are ready for a woman to lead the country and were actually more disposed towards this idea than their European counterparts. Pull the other one, it’s got bells on.

According to a Eurobarometer survey with 500 people, carried out by Misco last June, 84 per cent of Maltese respondents would feel comfortable with a female prime minister and they were actually more disposed towards this idea than their European counterparts, reported Ivan Camilleri in The Times on Friday.

Times: Don’t Quota Me

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121123/blogs/don-t-quota-me.446598
Friday, November 23, 2012, 16:39 by Tanja Cilia

Tulsi Gabbard Tamayo is an Iraq War veteran, and, incidentally, America’s first Hindu Congresswoman on the Democratic ticket. Her Oath of Office, come January 3, will be the first ever to be administered over the Bhagavad Gita. Her father is Hawaii State Senator Mike Gabbard. Aged 23, she was the state’s first elected official who resigned voluntarily to go to war.

Malta Today: Updated | Socialists: 'Borg left many open questions'

Socialists vote to reject Borg in internal meeting vote, but allow MEPs free vote.

http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/world/Socialists-to-reject-Borg-but-allow-free-vote-to-MEPs-20121120
Wednesday 21 November 2012 - 09:30 by Matthew Vella


S&D leader Hannes Swoboda confirmed a split inside the socialists grouping.

The group of Socialists & Democrats in the European Parliament have voted to reject Tonio Borg for the post of European Commissioner, but have agreed to give their members a free vote tomorrow in Strasbourg.

The news comes in the wake of a decision by the socialists' political grouping, in which 62 MEPs voted in favour of a statement to reject Borg, against 24.

Malta Today: Maltese not keen on transgender, non-Catholic prime minister

Eurobarometer finds Maltese more prejudiced towards PM of different religious, ethnic background or transgender leader.

http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/Maltese-not-keen-on-transgender-non-Catholic-prime-minister-20121122
Thursday 22 November 2012 - 15:38 by James Debono


Vladimir Luxoria was the first openly transgender MP in Europe, and the world's second openly transgender MP after New Zealander Georgina Beyer.

The Maltese profess themselves to be "very comfortable" with having a female or even a disabled Prime Minister, but are less likely to feel at home if the highest-elected official in the country was a transgender person, or someone who is not Catholic or white.

Spiegel: On Being Gay, Conservative and Catholic

http://www.spiegel.de/international/zeitgeist/spiegel-interview-with-gay-conservative-politician-jens-spahn-a-868660.html
23.11.2012 by Fritz Stockmeier / DER SPIEGEL


Jens Spahn, 32, is a member of the conservative Christian Democratic Union.

Jens Spahn is a conservative parliamentarian. He is also gay. In a SPIEGEL interview, the 32-year-old describes how this has informed his political career and assesses how far Germany has come on civil rights for gays and lesbians.

ILGA-Europe: Election of Tonio Borg as the new EU Commissioner for Health

http://www.ilga-europe.org/home/news/for_media/media_releases/ilga_europe_statement_on_the_election_of_tonio_borg_as_the_new_eu_commissioner_for_health

21/11/2012

Today the European Parliament endorsed Tonio Borg as the next EU Commissioner for Health.

During the hearing at the European Parliament on 13 November 2012 and in his letter to the Members of the European Parliament on 18 November 2012, Tonio Borg made a number of commitments relevant for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) people, including a clear commitment to proactively combat discrimination based on sexual orientation within his area of competences and to advocate for depathologisation of trans people.

ILGA-Europe will closely monitor Tonio Borg’s work as EU Commissioner. We also hope to engage constructively with him and his services over the term of his mandate and to work with him towards delivering on the commitments he made before the European Parliament.

ILGA-Europe
Brussels, 21 November 2012

Times: Gay rights group ‘can’t go to school’

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121122/local/Gay-rights-group-can-t-go-to-school-.446352
Thursday, November 22, 2012 by Bertrand Borg

Lesbian, gay and bisexual students are more likely to feel depressed, attempt suicide and skip class – but are not catered for by the Maltese school system.

We were given a list of things we weren’t allowed to say

Educators found it “almost impossible” to access schools and teach students about LGBT issues, Malta Gay Rights Movement coordinator Gaby Calleja said yesterday.

Although the authorities were willing to engage with the MGRM on individual cases, there was much more institutional resistance with broader school policy, she said.

Malta Today: Updated | Gay rights, humanist NGOs call on MEPs to reject Borg

NGOs have called on MEPs to vote against Tonio Borg, claiming they were dissatisfied with the way in which he addressed issues related to sexual and reproductive health.

http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/world/Gay-rights-humanist-NGOs-call-on-MEPs-to-reject-Borg-20121120
Tuesday 20 November 2012 - 15:11 by a Staff Reporter

Prof. Arnold Cassola, AD spokesperson on EU and International Affairs, has written to the Green Group in the European Parliament stating that Alternattiva Demokratika is against Tonio Borg's nomination.

"AD is not against Borg's nomination because he is a Catholic but because he has tried to impose his personal views on everybody, with regards to gay rights and divorce, and because he was in favour of Berlusconi's pushback policy of migrants as well as sending Eritrean refugees back home to be tortured as evidenced by Amnesty International and UNHCR..... which goes against the basic teaching of the Catholic church. The personal faith of every person, including Commissioners, should be always respected, whatever it is," Cassola said.

Times: Gay marriage, adoption protest

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121119/world/Gay-marriage-adoption-protest.445968
Monday, November 19, 2012



Photo: AFP

A demonstration against same-sex marriage was held on Saturday in Lyon, central eastern France. France’s Socialist Government on November 7 adopted a draft law to authorise gay marriage and adoption, despite fierce opposition from the Roman Catholic Church and the right-wing opposition.

Malta Star: French, Irish march on gay marriage, abortion

http://www.maltastar.com/dart/20121118-french-irish-march-on-gay-marriage-abortion
Monday, 19 Nov 2012, 04:56

Tens of thousands of people have protested in France against plans to legalise same-sex marriage and allow gay couples to adopt.

Police said at least 70,000 took to the streets in Paris; there were other demonstrations in the cities of Lyon, Toulouse and Marseille.

They included Catholic groups and other backers of traditional family rights.

Times: Adoption by gay couples

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121117/letters/Adoption-by-gay-couples.445669
Saturday, November 17, 2012 by George Camilleri, Victoria

A response to Karl Consiglio (November 14 a man and a man, or a woman and a woman, can never be considered ‘at par’ with a man and a woman.

Morality apart, if we eliminated such distinctions it would bring to an end meaningful discourse.

Supporters of adoption by ‘gay couples’ have to seek a different argument, if there is one.

Malta Today: French march against gay marriage bill

Thousands in France protest against plans to legalise same-sex marriage and gay couple adoption.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/world/French-march-against-gay-marriage-bill-20121118
Sunday 18 November 2012 - 09:48


Police said that while there were at least 70,000 in the streets of Paris, there were other demonstrations in the cities of Lyon, Toulouse and Marseille.

Tens of thousands of people in France marched against plans to legalise same-sex marriage and allow gay couples to adopt.

Avaaz: Hours to stop Uganda's horrific anti-gay law

23.11.12, Avaaz

In hours, Uganda could pass a law that could impose the death penalty or life imprisonment for homosexuality. An international outcry shelved this bill last year -- we urgently need to ramp up the pressure to press President Museveni to stand up for human rights and stop this brutal law. Sign below, and tell everyone:

The Ugandan Parliament is set to pass a brutal law that may carry the death penalty for homosexuality. If they do, thousands of Ugandans could face execution or life imprisonment -- just for being gay.

We've helped stop this bill before, and we can do it again. After a massive global outcry last year, Ugandan President Museveni blocked the bill's progress. But political unrest is mounting in Uganda, and religious extremists in Parliament are hoping confusion and violence in the streets will distract the international community from a second push to pass this hate-filled law. We can show them that the world is still watching.

We have no time to lose. Let’s get one million voices against Uganda's horrific anti-gay law in the next 24 hours -- we'll deliver it to Uganda's leaders and key countries. Click here to take action, then forward this email to everyone:

http://www.avaaz.org/en/uganda_stop_gay_death_law/?bPvvGdb&v=19500

Being gay in Uganda is already dangerous and terrifying. LGBT Ugandans are regularly harassed and beaten, and just last year gay rights activist David Kato (pictured above) was brutally murdered in his own home. Now they are threatened by this draconian law which could impose life imprisonment for people convicted of same-sex relations, and the death penalty for “serial offenders”. Even NGOs working to prevent the spread of HIV can be imprisoned for “promoting homosexuality” under this hate-filled law. 

All Out: Hours to stop "Kill the Gays" Bill [in Uganda]

Act now to stop the "Kill the Gays" bill in Uganda. Join the global outcry now and make sure Museveni keeps his promise to veto. Uganda's infamous "Kill the Gays" bill is back. If it passes, this horrific law could allow the death penalty for lesbian and gay Ugandans. It could pass at any moment.  President Museveni once promised to veto this heinous bill. But Uganda's politicians are desperate to pass the bill and they're pressuring Museveni to give in. The Speaker of the Parliament is actually calling it a "Christmas gift" to Uganda! Last May, millions of us stood up with activists from across Uganda to stop this very same law - and it worked.  Now we have to do it again.  We need to take action and share this far and wide.  We need every voice to build a massive outcry that the media and world leaders can't ignore.  The pressure could be enough to stop this bill in its tracks: www.allout.org/uganda According to our partners, the bill is now up for debate and can be voted on at any moment.  As Ugandan politicians work to finalize the the text of the bill, one thing is clear - if passed, it will force lesbian, gay, bi and trans Ugandans into the shadows.  Despite global opposition, some politicians in Uganda refuse to give up the bill and one is even calling for a new regional law, that would send every gay person in Africa to jail – for life. If this bill passes in Uganda, it wouldn't just mean tragedy for gay and lesbian Ugandans – it could set off a domino effect across the continent. Will you add your name and ask your friends to sign with you now? www.allout.org/uganda These politicians are using homophobia to distract Ugandans – and the world – from the very real problems they're supposed to be addressing at home, from corruption to freedom of the media. They're playing political games with people's very lives and lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans Ugandans will pay a steep price if they win. With millions of us together, we helped knocked this bill off course once before. Our friends in Uganda need to know we still have their backs.  Sign now and then ask your friends to get on board – there's no time to lose! www.allout.org/uganda This global movement for the simple right to live and love freely is unstoppable. But, as this hateful bill shows, there are still many hurdles in the historic battle for human rights and full equality. This is one of those milestone moments, and by raising your voice you are making a huge difference. Thanks for going All Out. Best, Andre, Hayley, Jeremy, Sara and the rest of the All Out team. SOURCES: Uganda's anti-gay bill to be passed by end of year www.washingtonpost.com/world/africa/official-ugandas-anti-gay-bill-to-be-passed-by-end-of-year-despite-criticism-abroad/2012/11/12/a4f5d3b8-2cb4-11e2-b631-2aad9d9c73ac_story Uganda's President to block "Kill the Gays" Bill www.76crimes.com/2012/06/18/uganda-president-ill-block-kill-the-gays-bill Ugandan Parliament Speaker pushes for "Kill the Gays" bill www.thinkprogress.org/lgbt/2012/10/31/1117031/ugandan-parliament-speaker-pushes-for-kill-the-gays-bill Ugandan lawmaker calls for all homosexuals to be jailed for life www.gaystarnews.com/article/uganda-lawmaker-calls-all-african-gay-people-be-jailed-life111012

All Out is bringing people together in every corner of the planet and of every identity - lesbian, gay, straight, bisexual, transgender and all that’s between and beyond - to build a world in which everyone can live freely and be embraced for who they are. Our mailing address is: Purpose Foundation 224 Centre St New York, NY 10013 Copyright © 2012 AllOut.org, All rights reserved.

Malta Today: Is the gay marriage debate sidelining other gay rights?

In Malta, gay men and lesbians must be careful not to put the cart before the wheel especially when gay marriage extends rights to some but not all gay men and lesbians.

http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/blogsdetails/blogs/Is-the-gay-marriage-debate-sidelining-other-gay-rights
Blog Saturday, November 17, 2012 by Joseph Carmel Chetcuti



Let me begin by laying my cards on the table. I support gay marriage. I do so chiefly for two reasons. First, gay men and lesbians have as much right as heterosexuals to be part of a patriarchal and oppressive institution. With that comes the right to ditch one's spouse with the aid and connivance of the State. Secondly, marriage opens the way to a raft of rights that the law denies to other mere mortals.

YouTube: Fact Check on Tonio Borg's Statements on Homosexuality

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xX1jDXfsdjg&feature=plcp

New York Times: Gay Vote Crucial in Obama's Victory

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/16/us/politics/gay-vote-seen-as-crucial-in-obamas-victory.html?_r=0

Joshua Lott for The New York Times

A gay pride parade in Chicago in June. President Obama had more than a three-to-one edge among gay voters, exit polls found.

By MICAH COHEN

Published: November 15, 2012 487 Comments

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While President Obama’s lopsided support among Latino and other minority voters has been a focus of postelection analysis, the overwhelming support he received from another growing demographic group — Americans who identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual — has received much less attention.

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Obama’s Diverse Base of Support

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But the backing Mr. Obama received from gay voters also has a claim on having been decisive. Mitt Romneyand Mr. Obama won roughly an equal share of votes among straight voters nationwide, exit polls showed. And, a study argues, Mr. Romney appears to have won a narrow victory among straight voters in the swing states of Ohio and Florida.

Mr. Obama’s more than three-to-one edge in exit polls among the 5 percent of voters who identified themselves as gay, lesbian or bisexual was more than enough to give him the ultimate advantage, according to the study, by Gary J. Gates of the Williams Institute at the U.C.L.A. School of Law, in conjunction with Gallup. The results are consistent with earlier research on the number and political beliefs of gay voters.

Democrats have been winning big over Republicans among gay voters, African-Americans, Latinos, Asian-Americansand Jews. Some of the groups are relatively small, but together they make up about one-third of the electorate, forcing Republicans to capture much of the remaining two-thirds to win elections. By comparison, white evangelical voters, who vote overwhelmingly for Republicans, make up about one-fourth of the electorate, and their numbers are not growing as rapidly.

As with Latinos and Asian-Americans, the number of voters who say they are gay appears to be growing. Only 1.9 percent of Americans over 65 call themselves gay, lesbian or bisexual, according to the Gallup survey, while 3.2 percent of those between 30 and 49, and 6.4 percent of those between 18 and 29 do.

Malta Today: Update 3 Borg not yet out of the woods, socialists seek new guarantees

LGBT intergroup president to reject Borg - Socialists ‘regret’ nomination of Tonio Borg - Greens, Liberals reject nomination of commissioner-designate.
http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/Liberals-oppose-Tonio-Borg-s-candidacy-20121114
Wednesday 14 November 2012 - 17:05 by Jurgen Balzan


Updated at 17:05 with statement from Michael Cashman MEP.

Commissioner-designate Tonio Borg might be asked to make a further commitment beyond his vocal assurances to MEPs, that will bind him to his statements made during his three-hour hearing on Tuesday.

Malta Today: LGBT-intergroup president Michael Cashman to reject Tonio Borg

British Labour MEP says he cannot endorse Tonio Borg for the European Commission.

http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/en/newsdetails/news/national/LGBT-intergroup-president-Michael-Cashman-to-reject-Tonio-Borg-20121114
Wednesday 14 November 2012 - 17:33 by Matthew Vella


British Labour MEP Michel Cashman at Tonio Borg's hearing.

The president of the LGBT-rights intergroup in the European Parliament said he cannot endorse Malta's foreign minister Tonio Borg for the post of Commissioner of the EU.

Michael Cashman had previously welcomed Borg's request for a bilateral meeting to discuss his previous statements on gay rights which the LGBT-rights intergroup felt barred him from being a suitable candidate for commissioner for health and consumer policy.

Times: Update 2: ALDE, Greens reject Tonio Borg's nomination, Socialists not yet decided

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121114/local/alde-rejects-tonio-borg-s-nomination-for-health-commissioner.445357
Wednesday, November 14, 2012, 13:33

ALDE and Green MEPS have rejected Tonio Borg's candidacy for EU Health Commissioner.

During Dr Borg's hearing yesterday, ALDE MEPs expressed serious concerns about his past record which, they said in a statement, suggested a discriminatory attitude on homosexuality, divorce and abortion.

Times: Adoption by gay couples

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121114/letters/Adoption-by-gay-couples.445290
Wednesday, November 14, 2012 by Karl Consiglio, Sliema

I would like to point out to Jacqueline Calleja (November 9) that not letting a child have two mothers or two fathers, if we really have nothing against the gay community, is on a par with not letting them have a mother and a father.

All Out: 10 years in jail. For this?

Nigerians are asking for your urgent support. Their parliament is trying to ram through a new "Jail the Gays" law. President Jonathan can veto – but he has to believe the whole world is watching. Dear Patrick, Nigeria is days from passing the "Jail the Gays" bill - one of the harshest anti-gay laws the world has ever seen. The proposed law will mean 10 years in prison for two people daring to hold hands in public. Live with someone of the same sex – 10 years in prison Organise a gathering of gay people – 10 years in prison Support the idea of a pride march – 10 years in prison After a year languishing in the House of Assembly, the "Jail the Gays" bill has been rushed through with zero notice. The only roadblock before it becomes law is one signature – President Goodluck Jonathan's. Last year, 65,000 of us stood against this bill and it was abandoned! Can you take one minute to help us do it again?  It takes only one minute but it could change history: www.allout.org/nigeria-veto When the bill was first introduced, politicians said there were no gay people in their country. Our friends in Nigeria have said they are not taking this lying down - they've got a plan and they're asking for our help. Right now, they are organising an unprecedented response of African advocates – both straight and gay – to speak out against this bill. Today, we are showing that not only do Nigerian LGBT people exist, but the whole world has their back. Will you stand with Nigerians against this hateful law and help us to get to 100,000 signatures? www.allout.org/nigeria-veto The only way to stop this bill is to trumpet Nigerian voices for equality - supported by millions around the world. President Jonathan can veto the bill – and if he hears these Nigerian voices, he'll have to. We know we can drive the right message to every government and media organisation around the world to make sure President Goodluck Jonathan knows his people and their allies will not tolerate him signing this bill into law. Will you take one minute and add your name now? www.allout.org/nigeria-veto Thanks for going All Out. Best, Andre, Hayley, Jeremy, Sara and the rest of the All Out team. SOURCES Nigerian law-makers move ahead on anti-gay bill www.nation.co.ke/News/africa/Nigerian-lawmakers-move-ahead-on-anti-gay-bill All Out is bringing people together in every corner of the planet and of every identity - lesbian, gay, straight, bisexual, transgender and all that’s between and beyond - to build a world in which everyone can live freely and be embraced for who they are. Our mailing address is: Purpose Foundation 224 Centre St New York, NY 10013 Copyright © 2012 AllOut.org, All rights reserved.

Daily Nation: Nigerian lawmakers move ahead on anti-gay bill

http://www.nation.co.ke/News/africa/Nigerian-lawmakers-move-ahead-on-anti-gay-bill/-/1066/1619634/-/1306f7v/-/index.html
November 14 2012 at 01:39 by By AFP, ABUJA

Nigerian lawmakers moved a step closer Tuesday to approving a bill that would harshly crack down on gay rights, including banning same-sex marriage and public displays of affection between homosexual couples.

The bill which has already been approved by the Senate passed a second reading in the House of Representatives with an unanimous vote and will now see a clause-by-clause review in the chamber at an undetermined date.

Malta Star: MEP Cashman, LGBT Intergroup's head will not endorse Borg

http://www.maltastar.com/dart/20121114-mep-cashman-lgbt-intergroup-head-will-not-endorse-borg
Wednesday, 14 Nov 2012, 16:47



British Michael Cashman head of EP's LGBT's rights intergroup said that after giving a lot of thought he will not endorse Tonio Borg for the EU nomination.

Yesterday before Borg hearing at the European Parliament in Brussels, Cashman stated that the Maltese designate commissioner "personal views would not affect his actions". He even tweeted that "if youjudge before, you lose the argument".

ILGA: NGOs: Reject Tonio Borg at plenary vote at the European Parliament

http://www.ilga-europe.org/home/news/for_media/media_releases/tonio_borg_15_november

Tonio Borg at the hearing on 13 November 2012

15/11/2012

Civil society organisations: “We call for the rejection of Tonio Borg’s nomination at plenary vote at the European Parliament”

On 13 November 2012, Tonio Borg, Malta’s new nominee for the post of the EU Health Commissioner, was heard by the members of the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety.

Prior to the hearing, our organisations called on the Members of the European Parliament to reject Tonio Borg’s nomination. After the hearing, we continue to have serious concerns about his nomination.

During the hearing, Mr Borg addressed some of the issues raised by our organisations and he made a few commitments towards abiding by the EU Fundamental Rights’ Charter, particularly with regards to the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) people. However, we are highly dissatisfied with the way in which he addressed issues related to sexual and reproductive health, women’s rights and rights of migrants.

Despite commitments made at the hearing, our organisations’ strong objection to his nomination still remains. Mr. Borg’s political track record shows that his personal views have a strong influence on his political actions, despite reassurance to the contrary

We call on the European Parliament to reject Tonio Borg’s candidature on the basis of facts, which included his documented track record as well as on the basis of the Parliament hearing of 13 November 2012.

We ask you to vote against Tonio Borg’s nomination next Wednesday at the plenary vote on 21 November 2012 .

Signatories:

Catholics for Choice www.catholicsforchoice.org

European Humanist Federation www.humanistfederation.eu

EAFT - European Association of Free Thought www.aepl.eu

ENAR – European Network against Racism www.enar-eu.org

EATG – European AIDS Treatment Group www.eatg.org

European Women's Lobby - www.womenlobby.org

ILGA-Europe –European Region of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Associationwww.ilga-europe.org

IPPF European Network – International Planned Parenthood Federation www.ippfen.org

PICUM – Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants www.picum.org

Contacts

Catholics for Choice: David Nolan, Communications Director, 202-986-6093

ENAR: Georgina Siklossy, Communication and Press Officer, +32 2 229 35 77, georgina@enar-eu.org

EATG: Ann Isabelle von Lingen, Policy Officer, +32 491 348 317, annisabelle.vonlingen@eatg.org and Oleksandr Martynenko, Communications Coordinator, + 32 491 348 312 , oleksandr.martynenko@eatg.org

ILGA-Europe: Juris Lavrikovs, Communications Manager, +32 496 708 375, juris@ilga-europe.org

IPPF: Irene Donadio, Manager Public Affairs, idonadio@ippfen.org and Marie-Agnès Lenoir, Senior Communications Advisor, +32 2 250 0950, mlenoir@ippfen.org

PICUM: Kadri Soova, Advocacy Officer +32 496 451 291, kadri.soova@picum.org

Additional information – briefings and statements on Tonio Borg

• Joint statement from 12 November 2012
• Factsheet by Catholics for Choice
• Briefing by the European Parliament’s Intergroup on LGBTI Rights prepared with IPPF, EATG, Stop AIDS Alliance and ILGA-Europe
• PICUM letter to MEPs
• Letter to MEPs by Catholics for Choice