Blog 3: Singapore couple goes to court to abolish anti-gay sex law

On February 14, 2013, a gay couple went to court in attempt to discard an anti-gay law in Singapore, which makes gay sex illegal.  This is the second court case that is centered on the issue of gay rights within the week, and shows the resilience and persistence of the rising voice of the LGBT community.  Those voices are challenging the long time law stating that this discriminating view needs to be dropped. One of the cases was due to a discriminatory act at an individual’s workplace, where a former boss harassed the individual into leaving because he did not approve of his sexuality. Although more people are finding their voices, the city-state’s prime minister thinks the law is unlikely to change. He states that it is best to leave the law alone and simply “agree to disagree”. Along with this, many church groups shared their strong disapproval to disbanding the law.

             I am extremely hopeful for those finding their voice to stand up for equal rights in Singapore, and all over the world. It is disheartening, however, that the prime minister would basically push it to the side like he did. This law may not mean much to him, but it means so much for those it discriminates against. Even if the law is not enforced it still creates a barrier for homosexual individuals by making certain that they know they are not welcome, and will be submissive to authorities, as well as heterosexuals. This anti-gay view will hopefully evolve into a more accepting view with time, however the effects will be devastating until that time. Not only will it take time, but also it will take the courage of others to continue to be bold and fight for equality at any cost.

Reference:
http://www.gaystarnews.com/article/singapore-couple-goes-court-abolish-anti-gay-sex-law140213

Stephanie Symonds
4:49 PM 02/15/2013