LGBTQ Rally in Lebanon thwarted by residents. A group of people attempted to organize an LGBT rally at the center of Beirut, Lebanon but failed.
Several people belonging to LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, OR Questioning) wanted their rights and hence held a rally that lasted only for a few minutes.
The news went viral on social media along with some video clips in which people from the pertinent community were filmed and arrested by the police.
This year, on Sunday, June 25, 2023, members of the same community were seen flocking to Manhattan in a massive crowd during NYC Pride 2023.
Note that Lebanon, like many countries, has a complex history regarding LGBTQ+ rights. While Lebanon is considered one of the more liberal countries in the Middle East, homosexuality is still largely stigmatized, and the country has laws against “unnatural” sexual intercourse, which are sometimes used to target LGBTQ+ individuals.
Therefore, LGBTQ rally in Lebanon, protests, or demonstrations aimed at addressing these issues and advocating for greater rights and acceptance.
A Brief History of LGBTQ
The LGBTQ+ history is a complex and diverse timeline that has been shaped by centuries of change, struggles, and milestones. Here is a brief overview:
- Ancient Times: Even in ancient cultures, such as in Greece and Rome, homosexuality and transgender practices were not uncommon, although they were often viewed differently than they are today.
- Middle Ages/ Renaissance: During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, homosexuality was often condemned or punished, influenced greatly by the religious beliefs of the time.
- Late 19th Century: The term ‘homosexuality’ was coined in the late 19th century by German psychologist, Karoly Maria Benkert.
- Early 20th Century: The first half of the 20th century saw homosexuality being classified as a mental disorder, leading to ‘treatments’ such as conversion therapy. Despite this, underground LGBTQ+ communities started to form, such as the Harlem Renaissance in New York City.
- 1950s-1960s: In the mid-20th century, the LGBTQ+ rights movement began to take shape. The 1950s saw the establishment of one of the first LGBTQ+ organizations, the Mattachine Society. The 1960s brought the Stonewall Riots, a major turning point for the movement.
- 1970s-present: Since the 1970s, there have been major strides for LGBTQ+ rights, including the declassification of homosexuality as a mental disorder, the legalization of same-sex sexual activity, and the recognition of same-sex marriage. Despite this progress, there are still many ongoing challenges, such as discrimination, hate crimes, and unequal rights around the world.
The LGBTQ+ history is vast and varied, reflecting the diversity within the community itself. It’s a testament to resilience, courage, and the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance.
Nevertheless, LGBTQ rally in Lebanon isn’t something different as members of the community are often seen raising their voices and holding such rallies.
Please, visit to read more about the history of LGBTQ+
Conclusion of LGBTQ Rally in Lebanon
Lebanon has seen a series of protests and advocacy movements concerning LGBTQ+ rights in recent years. While homosexuality is technically not explicitly illegal in Lebanon, Article 534 of the Lebanese Penal Code, which prohibits sexual relations that ‘contradict the laws of nature’, is often used to target and penalize the LGBTQ+ community.