Is marriage for all finally coming to Cuba?
In the meantime, many people in many countries are discussing an important topic that is burning under the nails of the community: marriage for all.
Cuba is no exception in this context. Here, the vote is to be held in the fall, or more precisely in September. Among other things, there is repeated talk in this context of a new family law. The aim is to legalize surrogate motherhood, for example.
In short, a lot is currently happening in Cuba in connection with queer rights. How the whole thing will turn out, we will see in September.
The referendum on marriage for all in detail
The situation for queer people in Cuba could change dramatically in September 2022. This is because a referendum is to be held on whether marriage for all, which is already practiced in many countries, will also be introduced here. More precisely, the referendum is about a new family law, in the context of which surrogate motherhood should also be legalized.
The time will come on September 25, 2022. Many experts believe that nothing will stand in the way of this important step toward greater equality in the country. However, as is usually the case with referendums, a large proportion of the population must vote in favor.
If the vote is pro-queer, a law that has been current for almost five decades would be abolished or renewed. Until now, marriages have only been valid if they are between a man and a woman. This is precisely what is to be changed now - if the supporters of marriage for all have their way. It is envisaged that marriage will then be defined as a "voluntary union" between two people.
Currently, the situation for same-sex couples in Cuba is rather difficult. This is because they are not accepted by the law. But that could change in the future.
Marriage for all in Cuba: an issue for years
The discussion about whether it should be allowed to marry a person of the same sex in Cuba is by no means a new topic. Rather, it has been discussed for years whether marriage for all should not be allowed in principle.
At that time, however, those responsible decided more or less spontaneously not to let the population vote after all. Many were of the opinion that such a vote would not bring any innovations because too many people were against it anyway.
But: The topic was - especially within the community - still present and in 2022 it could finally become "serious"... Even if not everyone is enthusiastic about the possible innovations.
Both parties are already trying to win votes for themselves. The church also plays an important role in this context. Its representatives are currently making a special effort to mobilize votes against marriage for all.
A look back: the hard life of queers in Cuba
In Cuba, many queers suffered for a long time from not being able to openly live out their sexual orientation. Homophobia was the order of the day in the 1960s and 1970s, among other times. There were public attacks on queers and numerous attempts to "re-educate" gays and lesbians, for example.
In addition, queers were prohibited from practicing certain professions. Since then, a lot has happened, even if there is still a lot of room for improvement. So until today, quite a few CSDs are canceled. Those who nevertheless decided to take to the streets for queer rights were punished.
If marriage for all is actually voted for in the context of marriage for all, this would undoubtedly not be a real turning point that would show that not only the law but also the thinking in people's heads can change. Accordingly, on September 25, 2022, it will be exciting - not only for queers in Cuba, but all over the world.