LGBTQ+ Rights in Japan: A Chance for Change? clean

SOT Kyle Knight LGBT Human Rights Watch the Tokyo Olympics is a pivotal moment for the Global LGBT rights movement All eyes on Tokyo, where it's more than medals at stake in the Summer Olympics. Kyle Knight There was an unprecedented movement, an uprising from popular support across Japan in recent months.For the Japanese government to institute an LGBT nondiscrimination law in advance of the olympics. bump to More than 100,000 people signed a petition to the Prime Minister and indicated that Japan wanted to be a leader on LGBT Inclusivity, specifically linked to the olympic games. This non-discrimination law in Japan did not pass. Currently Japan is the only G7 country that does not recognize same-sex marriage. There are limited legal recognitions and protection for same sex couples and LGBT people in the workplace. LGBT rights advocates say- the popular outpouring of support for the bill did break down barriers and this set a positive tone for the games and for LGBT rights in Japan in general. A Pew Research poll in Japan this year showed 80% of people under 60 were in favour of same sex marriage. Experts say, we can view it this bill as a step forward and the olympics as a chance to advance the conversation. SOT ERIC LUESHEN LGBT SPORTSAFE we've seen how much sports can create social change, and we're kind of in that very unique period of time within sports where we can help create and push even more social change with LGBTQ inclusion utilizing sports. An upward road for those committed to advancing LGBTQ rights in Japan and other participating countries, but a glimmer of hope that this year's Olympics could spark a change.