In Japan, efforts toward a society that embraces diversity have been spreading in recent years. In particular, the movement to improve the rights of the LGBTQ+ community has garnered much attention, requiring legal reform, education, and individual awareness. We will consider how we should act in this trend and how society as a whole can change.
Current Situation and Issues in Japanese Society
In Japan, understanding of LGBTQ+ is gradually increasing, but there are still many issues to be addressed. For example, as of 2024, the legalization of same-sex marriage has not yet been completed, and same-sex couples cannot receive legal protection. Discrimination and prejudice in schools and workplaces also persist, forcing some LGBTQ+ people to hide their identities.
In educational settings, curricula are often not well developed to promote knowledge and understanding of sexual minorities. As a result, the environment remains prone to bullying and discrimination based on ignorance and prejudice. Even in the workplace, LGBTQ+ employees are often unable to publicly disclose their sexuality or gender identity, which can be a psychological burden.
The Need for Legal Reform
Legal reform is essential to achieve a society that embraces diversity. Japan is currently seeking to legalize same-sex marriage and enact laws prohibiting discrimination against sexual minorities. These legal reforms will provide the foundation for LGBTQ+ people to enjoy equal rights and live in peace.
It is clear from the examples of other countries that the development of legal protections has contributed significantly to improving the lives of the LGBTQ+ community. For example, in the United States and many European countries, same-sex marriage has been legalized, which has led to greater understanding throughout society. In Japan as well, the development of legislation will be an important step in promoting changes in social awareness.
The Role of Education
Education has the power to change society. Teaching correct knowledge about LGBTQ+ issues in school education is the foundation for eliminating prejudice and fostering a society that respects diversity. For example, it may be possible to introduce diverse sexuality in health and physical education classes, or provide opportunities to learn about the history and current status of LGBTQ+ as part of human rights education.
It is also important for teachers themselves to have correct knowledge about sexual minorities and to be able to respond appropriately to their students. To this end, training and guidance systems in educational settings need to be enhanced.
What we can do as individuals
In parallel with improvements in laws and education, it is also necessary to raise individual awareness. Each individual must review prejudices and stereotypes and develop an attitude of respect for diversity in order to promote change in society as a whole.
For example, we can pay attention to the language we use in our daily lives and avoid expressions that may unintentionally hurt someone. It is also important to learn correct information about LGBTQ+ and make an effort to deepen your own understanding. The accumulation of these small actions will help reduce prejudice and build a society where everyone can live their own lives with peace of mind.
Conclusion
Achieving a society that recognizes diversity will not be accomplished overnight. However, Japanese society is certainly changing, and as the voices of the LGBTQ+ community spread and society as a whole becomes more aware, the groundwork is being laid for a better future.
What each of us can do is to take small steps forward. By eliminating prejudice and maintaining an attitude of respect for others, I hope that Japanese society will evolve into one that truly embraces diversity.
