On the government law to "promote understanding of LGBT"

Center for Gender Studies(CGS) expresses strong concerns about the government law to "promote understanding of LGBT", which was passed in the Upper House on June 16.

As pointed out by many individuals, groups, and specialists, the bill supports in formality “the promotion of understanding” while circumventing the need to “ban (or eliminate) discrimination”. Under the words “the promotion of understanding”, it would rather enhance discriminations and oppress minorities. Showing “understanding” without admitting the fact of discrimination has no teeth and is ineffective, as is “understanding” ethnic minorities, people of specific race, or people with disabilities without securing them the same rights, opportunities and daily safety as the majority. The bill, which claims “understanding” as an end is far from protecting the human rights of LGBTQ+ nor promoting understanding of them. The bill would rather function to oppress LGBTQ+.

CGS does not tolerate discriminations against transgender people, homophobia, and any discrimination against diverse SOGI. It expresses its solidarity with LGBTQ+ people and all who oppose or show concerns against this bill. It also strongly urges the Japanese government to promote its own understanding of human rights, a global standard, in response to the requirement of international norms relevant to LGBTQ+ issues; and proceed to legislation that bans discrimination and secures protections of LGBTQ+ rights.

Interested members of CGS, June 16, 2023