Why LGBTQIA+
Currently, while there are many life-and-death service platforms in Hong Kong, none are specifically designed for the LGBTQIA+ community, neglecting their unique challenges in life-and-death issues in terms of market positioning, resource allocation, and target audience.
Lack of legal protection
In Hong Kong, LGBTQIA+ couples do not enjoy the same rights as heterosexual married couples. The LGBTQIA+ community has to rely on judicial reviews to fight for their rights in a piecemeal manner.
Take homosexuality as an example. Currently, Hong Kong law does not recognize same-sex marriages, resulting in significant difficulties and challenges for homosexual individuals when their partners pass away. For instance, one needed to pursue a judicial review to scatter his late husband’s ashes and some others are completely excluded from their partners’ funeral due to opposition from the partners’ biological family.
Hence, Alongside encourages sexual/gender minorities to make advance life planning as early as possible, using existing legal and community resources to prepare and protect both themselves and their loved ones.
Non-acceptance by family
Many within the LGBTQIA+ community go through their entire lives without revealing their sexual/gender identity to their biological families. Even among those who have ‘come out’ to their families, it’s not uncommon to see discord due to their identity.
These complex entanglements with biological families often leave partners in difficult situations after their passing, such as disputes over inheritance or funeral arrangements. Therefore, early planning for posthumous matters can greatly reduce the chances of unnecessary conflicts.
Mainstream institutions may not always perceive and understand the complex relationships between sexual/gender minorities and their biological families. As an organization specifically serving the sexual/gender minority community, Alongside provides a space for them to freely express their concerns and needs in detail, offering appropriate solutions. If needed, Alongside is also happy to serve as a communication bridge between sexual/gender minorities and their families.
Discrimination
Discrimination against sexual/gender minorities is not a rarity, whether it’s overt or the more insidious forms of microaggressions. Even if unintentional or perceived as ‘less harmful,’ such microaggressions are often filled with gender stereotypes or heteronormative views that exclude diverse sexual/gender identities. The damage they inflict on sexual/gender minorities is equally significant.
Living in environments that are not welcoming to sexual/gender diversity often results in sexual/gender minority feeling insecure or uncomfortable about revealing their true identities. This can prevent them from accessing the most appropriate services. For instance, when drafting wills, some might refer to their partners as ‘friends’ to hide their sexual/gender identity, which could ultimately impact the will’s effectiveness and the protection it offers to their partner.
Alongside is committed to creating a safe space that is considerate of the unique situations faced by sexual/gender minorities. We ensure everyone feels accepted and their privacy is protected, providing a comfortable environment to discuss life-and-death topics and plan for the future.