In the landmark ruling, the southern African nation’s High Court rejected sections of the penal code that criminalize same-sex relations and impose up to seven years in prison.
Author: Meryl Connelly-Chew
I work as an advocate for survivors of domestic and sexual violence and facilitate a LGBTQ+ survivors support group. I have a B.L.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies, with concentrations in Psychology, Sociology, and English. I grew up in rural Southeast Alaska, and live now in Bellingham, Washington with my dog Fathom. I write for Kindling because I believe in the innate value of each of us and I am inspired by the existence of goodness in our collective humanity.
New Zealand ‘wellbeing’ budget focuses resources on vulnerable populations
Family violence, mental health needs, and child poverty are all at the center of New Zealand’s new ‘wellbeing’ budget, with billions being newly allocated to causes that relate to the overall wellbeing of New Zealanders.
‘Humanity’ added as a religion option on Kolkata college admissions forms
Many students and alumni celebrated the change as a bold statement of inclusivity and progress.
“Transgender” removed from World Health Organization mental disorders
The removal of ‘gender identity disorders’ from their diagnostic manual marks a historic decision for the transgender social justice movement worldwide.
Tanzania bans plastic bags
The government of Tanzania has issued a ban on producing, using, importing, or selling plastic bags.
Taiwan legalizes same-sex marriage
The parliament of Taiwan voted to legalize same-sex marriage, becoming the first government in Asia to do so.
Federal court rules Ohio’s congressional map unconstitutional
The ruling, by a three-judge panel from the Federal District Court in Cincinnati, ordered new maps to be drawn by June 14 to be used for the 2020 election, when Democrats will fight to preserve their House majority.
Denver voters approve decriminalizing “magic mushrooms”
On May 7, 2019 Denver, Colorado passed Initiative 301 decriminalizing psilocybin, or “magic”, mushrooms. Denver is now the first city in the U.S. that has legislation decriminalizing psilocybin.
Los Angeles launches its own Green New Deal
The plan requires all new city-owned buildings to be “all-electric,” effective immediately, aims to phase out Styrofoam by 2021, and more.