"Newlywed couple in Hong Kong laments veto of same-sex marriage bill, viewing it as a step back for equality"
In Hong Kong, a bill that would have allowed limited legal rights for same-sex couples was vetoed, leaving lesbian newlyweds Jaedyn Yu and Gloria Tsang affected. The couple, who have been together for around five years, met through their shared passion for music – with Jaedyn being a drummer and Gloria a vocal percussionist.
The vetoed bill faced strong opposition from some pro-Beijing legislators in Hong Kong's Legislative Council. This veto comes amid a years-long crackdown on dissent and the city's pro-democracy opposition under a China-imposed national security law.
Yu and Tsang tied the knot through a Zoom wedding with a US officiant in May this year, as they could not marry legally in Hong Kong. Their wedding was in Bali, Indonesia. Since then, the couple has been open about their relationship, hoping to create a more accepting society in Hong Kong.
Yu expressed that Hong Kong, as an international city, is not up to par with other international cities in terms of rights for the LGBT community. She stated that she wishes more people would be less scared of same-sex relationships, hoping for a more accepting society.
Tsang added that people with values of equality might hesitate to come to Hong Kong due to the lack of acceptance for LGBT people. The couple believes the lack of broader rights for LGBT people in Hong Kong hampers the city's ability to attract talent.
The efforts to overcome the legislative veto in Hong Kong regarding the acceptance of registered partnerships or marriages between same-sex persons were supported by pro-LGBTQ+ activists and some progressive lawmakers. The vetoed bill was an opportunity for a rare liberal shift in Hong Kong's legal landscape.
Despite the veto, Yu and Tsang remain hopeful. They expressed disappointment but not surprise at the decision, and they continue to advocate for a more accepting society in Hong Kong. Their hope is that by being open about their relationship, they can help create a more accepting society in the city.
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