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Associated PressMar 01
Japan Court Rules Ban on Same-Sex Marriage is 'Unconstitutional'
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The Facts
A Japanese high court ruled that the country's ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional Thursday, in a move advocacy groups say will likely pressure the government to increase protections for LGBTQ people.
The court's ruling cited the country's constitution, which discusses the right to equality and states that marriage shall be only on the mutual consent of "both sexes." The court said this could be taken to mean marriage between individuals of the same sexes should be guaranteed.
The Spin
Left narrative
This verdict is a long-awaited victory for LGBTQ rights in Japan. This marks a significant step towards the legalization of same-sex marriage in the country and shows that discrimination like the ban on marriage equality is unconstitutional and has no place in the country. The Japanese government must now take proactive steps to legalize marriage equality and ensure the equal rights of its LGBTQ citizens.
Right narrative
Japan is a traditional country that holds significance in conservative family values. Legalizing gay marriage would not just be a legal change, it would significantly alter Japanese society. While LGBTQ people mustn't be discriminated against in Japan, legalizing same-sex marriage requires significant discussion and should not be rushed into.