Did you hear?!?!

Yesterday was International Day Against Homophobia & Transphobia.

Here are three of my favorite headlines/stories from around the world:

3. Jamaica: Gay protest at Emancipation Park
Known for extreme cases of hate crimes on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, Jamaica has long since been on my ever-growing list of places I don’t hope to safely visit any time soon. However, this small group of protesters has definitely given me hope that I may be able to one day experience its renowned beaches and resorts in this lifetime.

2. Struggle Against Homophobia Takes to the Streets
State institutions, non-governmental and religious organisations, academics, artists and above all gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transvestites and transsexuals marked the Day Against Homophobia with a full two weeks of activism, celebrations, workshops, demands for full respect for sexual diversity, a street procession of conga dancers and bands in central Havana, and an ecumenical celebration in defence of the Christian principle of non-discrimination.

“Governments cannot wait for a social consensus in order to guarantee respect for people’s rights,” Mariela Castro, head of Cuba’s National Centre for Sex Education (CENESEX), told IPS on the occasion of the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia in Cuba Monday.

1. Portugal’s president ratifies gay marriage law
This may not be a surprise to some of you, but it is worthy of celebration all the same! Portugal has officially become the 6th European country, following Belgium, to allow gay marriage, thus enforcing marriage equality for all its citizens no matter their sexual orientation, gender, or gender identity! See you on the beaches!