LGBT+Rights+in+Peru

=LGBT Rights in Peru =

In Ancient Peru, homosexuality was common and accepted. There are several works of art that represent same-sex relationships in these ancient civilizations. Homosexuality was outlawed when the Spanish invaded. Many priests from that time were astounded by the Peruvians homosexual behavior and destroyed much of the art representing it. Luckily, enough lived on today for us to have evidence that it existed.

It was not accepted from then on, until the last few years, similar to many other countries. Several laws were proposed in January of 2017 to stop discrimination against members of the LGBT+ community and legalize same sex marriage. LGBT+ members were also not allowed to serve in the Peruvian military until 2009. There are still several unfriendly actions towards members of the community in Peru. These actions are often led by, or done in favor of, the Catholic Church. At the first Peruvian pride parade in 2002, many of the attendees wore masks to protect themselves from public shaming and prosecution.

The LGBT+ acceptance percentage is higher in Peru than most other countries. They also have several laws to protect them from hate crimes. Peru may not be the nicest to same-sex couples, but they have more rights than many others like them around the world.

By: Brianne Phillips