University students in China are forced to cancel Day Against Homophobia
An LGBT+ student group at Wuhan University have been forced to cancel their International Day Against Homophobia events after a campaign from students and staff. University officials and students began targeting those in the LGBT+ group after hearing about the events, tell them “homosexual activity” would bring down the university’s reputation.
They then spread messages to other students on WeChat, a popular messaging service. “A small number of students have been influenced by western subculture, and today may be on internet platforms advocating homosexual activity,” one message read. “They mislead the public, incite widespread student participation in “gay” community activities, and encourage students to dip into ‘gay culture’.”
Some of the LGBT+ students tried standing up for themselves, one writing: “I don’t consider my sexual orientation to be an error. All forms of love and affection between two people should be respected. You’re not capable of that respect, but at least try not to defame my orientation.”
Under intense pressure the students were forced to cancel their events anyway, they moved to a small on campus classroom and distributed leaflets and rainbow bracelets.
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