"Hong Kong's newlywed same-sex couples express disappointment and loss following the veto of the same-sex marriage bill, stating it as a step back for equality"
In a blow to the LGBTQ community in Hong Kong, the Legislative Council has vetoed a bill that would have granted limited legal rights to same-sex couples who have registered their marriage or relationship overseas. This decision comes amidst a years-long crackdown on dissent and the city's pro-democracy opposition under a China-imposed national security law.
The vetoed bill was an opportunity for a rare liberal shift in Hong Kong's legal landscape. Lesbian newlyweds Jaedyn Yu and Gloria Tsang, who met thanks to their shared passion for music, are among those expressing disappointment but not surprise at the veto.
Jaedyn Yu, a drummer, and Gloria Tsang, a vocal percussionist, tied the knot in a unique Zoom wedding with a US officiant based in Utah, back in May. Their wedding took place in Bali, Indonesia, due to the lack of legal recognition for same-sex marriages in Hong Kong.
The couple, who hope to help create a more accepting society in Hong Kong, believe the lack of broader rights for LGBTQ people in the city hampers its ability to attract talent. Gloria Tsang stated that the veto might deter people with values of equality from moving to Hong Kong, especially those with children of different sexual orientations.
The concerns about the bill were voiced primarily by 30 Asian LGBTI groups, who criticised the bill for only permitting registration for couples with valid partnerships registered outside Hong Kong and for granting very limited rights focused solely on medical decisions and death arrangements.
Jaedyn Yu expressed a desire for more people to be less scared of same-sex relationships, hoping for a more accepting society. She stated that Hong Kong, as an international city, is not up to par with other international cities in terms of equality and rights for the LGBTQ community.
The veto of the bill was due to strong opposition from some pro-Beijing legislators. Despite this setback, Jaedyn Yu and Gloria Tsang remain hopeful, continuing to advocate for equality and rights for the LGBTQ community in Hong Kong.
