Fridae

With three parties and a string of arts programmes, Nation.04 (Aug 7-9) will offer an action-packed weekend of activities for all.

China delegates to the Fifth Tongzhi Conference in HK earlier this month are optimistic about the future; delegates report that numerous gay communities have sprung up across China.

The Mowelfund Film Institute and ProGay Philippines present the 2nd International Gay and Lesbian Film and Video Festival in Manila, Baguio, Iloilo and at SM cinemas nationwide.

In landmark ruling in the United States, the Supreme Court of Massachusetts says denying same-sex couples the right to marriage is unconstitutional. It gives a major victory to America?s homosexuals, but public opinion is turning against them and President George Bush still insists marriage is a solely heterosexual institution. Tim Cribb reports.

Massachusetts became the first U.S. state to allow gay marriages, following a ruling last November by the state Supreme Judicial Court.

A government-linked bank said it might consider launching a credit card for gays in the city-state if there's enough demand for such a product.

Photos showing Iraqi prisoners being forced to perform gay sex acts have surfaced shortly after images of abuse and torture were broadcast by a US news network last month.

A high-ranking official in the Catholic Church has for the first time questioned the official position that gay relationships are "evil and deviant," and calls to 'recognise' gay partnerships.

For the first time in Taiwan and possibly Asia, an openly gay man has been ordained by the Presbyterian Church.

PM John Howard announces overhaul of he marriage act to stop Australian courts recognising foreign gay unions.