Rainbow carpet

Tokyo goes gay-friendly ahead of Olympics

Attention all those who love sushi and men in speedos…

The city of Tokyo, Japan has announced passage of a bill aimed at protecting the rights of LGBTQ people within the city. The reason: the 2020 Olympic games will take place in the historic city, and the Metropolitan Government wanted to assure the world that all athletes will be treated with proper respect. Russia, take note.

The new bill prescribes protections for people on the basis of sexuality or gender identity, and goes a step further by establishing new LGBTQ rights education programs for city officials.

Related: Did Japan’s First Lady pretend she doesn’t speak English to avoid talking to Trump?

The Human Rights Watch, an international organization focused on establishing and promoting human rights on a global scale, commended the move. However, Japan spokesperson Kanae Doi also hinted the new policy doesn’t go far enough.

“Japan is proud to host a human rights-friendly Olympics in 2020, and the government should use the next two years to pass laws and carry out policies that comprehensively protect everyone,” Doi said. Doi hopes that the larger government of the nation will also institute more LGBTQ protections. At present, federal law does not protect against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity, and the country has yet to legalize marriage equality.

Still, the city policy marks the latest in a trend of protections for queer people in Tokyo. Earlier this year, the city began work on a homeless shelter for LGBTQ people, as well as a Pride House to host gay athletes during the Olympics.

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