[Source]
A Japanese lesbian couple has been granted refugee status in Canada after enduring discrimination in Japan.
Key points:
The details:
-
While Japan has local partnership systems for same-sex couples, it still doesn’t have national marriage equality. LGBTQ+ rights advocates say social acceptance lags behind legal progress in Japan.
-
Hana and Eri said they faced workplace discrimination and social stigma in the country. The couple sought refugee status by submitting a 200-page document to Canada detailing their experiences with discrimination. They underwent a series of interviews and public hearings before their applications were approved.
-
In granting the request, Canada cited the U.N. Committee’s report on widespread discrimination against women and sexual minorities in Japan.
-
The women, who now have permanent resident status in Canada, said they decided to share their experiences to raise awareness about the challenges of the LGBTQ+ community in Japan.
Tangent:
Trending on NextShark: Japanese lesbian couple granted refugee status in Canada
Â
Download the NextShark App:
Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today!
Signup bonus from