Haneen Maikey

“It’s really pathetic that the Israeli state has nothing besides gay rights to promote their liberal image. Ridiculous, and in a sense hilarious, because there are no gay rights in Israel”

SOUNDBITES — “It’s really pathetic that the Israeli state has nothing besides gay rights to promote their liberal image. Ridiculous, and in a sense hilarious, because there are no gay rights in Israel. There are specific court cases that, when won, allowed certain individuals for instance to adopt a child. What is worth noting is that these decisions are case-specific, in the sense that they are made for this specific case, for this specific child and for these two mothers. You cannot build a human rights campaign on court cases that are not ratified.” —Palestinian gay rights activist Haneen Maikey, who holds Israeli citizenship, arguing Israel is not the happy place for gays everyone would have you believe. She adds: “Many Palestinians perceive themselves as hopeless, helpless victims that can’t do anything. But you can, and sometimes even without breaking the rules. Change doesn’t have to be creating a women’s group in the West Bank or telling your parents you are gay. It can be smaller things within yourself and with your friends. Drive a car, drink a beer, and stop blaming the occupation for all your problems.”

Don't forget to share:

Help make sure LGBTQ+ stories are being told...

We can't rely on mainstream media to tell our stories. That's why we don't lock Queerty articles behind a paywall. Will you support our mission with a contribution today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated