Aki and Hikari have shared a bond for seven years, concealing their relationship from the prying eyes of the world.
Japan is a member of the Group of Seven, commonly known as the G7. A nation known for its rich cultural heritage and technological advancements stands at a crossroads when it comes to issues of marriage equality. Despite progress in various parts of the world, Japan has been slow in recognizing the rights of its LGBTQ+ community, specifically same-sex couples. In recent years, the lack of legal recognition for same-sex marriages has sparked conversations about equality, human rights, and the need for societal acceptance.
The couple Aki and Hikari were looking for a house to live in in Tokyo but the real estate agent told them that the place was for “Couples Only”. On this the couple would reply “We are a couple” but the answer they were given is- “This is a house for a man and woman couple.”
In the complex tapestry of human relationships, some love stories unfold in the shadows, away from the spotlight of societal scrutiny. Aki and Hikari, two souls deeply entwined in love, have shared a clandestine connection for seven years, shielding their bond from the prying eyes of the world. Their tale illuminates the challenges and resilience inherent in relationships that thrive in secrecy, yet endure against all odds.
The Journey Begins
Seven years ago, in the bustling heart of a vibrant city, Aki and Hikari’s paths converged, and they found solace in each other’s presence. From the outset, they understood the complexities of their situation. Cultural expectations, family traditions, and societal norms often cast shadows on love stories that don’t fit the conventional mold. For Aki and Hikari, maintaining their relationship under wraps became a necessity, a choice made out of love, yet burdened by the weight of societal judgment.
Both the women are mothers of a baby too. They lovingly care for the infant, sharing feeding and diaper-changing responsibilities, and alternate staying with him to ensure the other can rest. Their conversations are filled with excitement about their newfound baby formula machine. Aki says- “We’re not recognized as a family of three.”
Japan, the sole G7 nation yet to fully acknowledge same-sex couples or provide them with definitive legal safeguards, has left the LGBTQ+ community within its borders feeling exposed and largely overlooked. For the privacy and safety of the individuals involved, the names Aki and Hikari have been altered.
In recent times, there has been mounting pressure to legalize same-sex partnerships, especially following the rulings by several district courts deeming the existing ban on such unions as unconstitutional. However, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has encountered significant challenges in pushing forward reforms, primarily due to opposition from the traditionally oriented political leadership.
Aki Says-“When I gave birth, I wrote a will to appoint my partner as our son’s legal guardian in case I died during labor. And even that didn’t guarantee her custody,” She also said- We wanted to show we exist, but in Japan, she says she and Hikari feel like they are being made invisible. “I grew up in a small, conservative town,” Aki reveals. “Realizing I was gay at a young age, I felt an overwhelming need to ‘fix’ myself. I lived in constant secrecy… I’ve sacrificed so much. I can’t bear this burden any longer.” (also noted here).
There’s a glimmer of hope for progress, Ms. Nishiyama emphasizes, but those in positions of power vehemently resist change: “Conservative politicians cling to the notion of the traditional family… and the patriarchy.”
“I’ve been actively advocating for LGBTQ+ rights for nearly a decade now,” she states, her frustration evident. “That’s why my frustration runs deep because I know I have to fight relentlessly. I could easily move to countries where LGBTQ+ rights are protected by law, but I haven’t chosen that path. I’m determined to transform Japanese society and safeguard my own rights.”
Aki and Hikari share the same dream – they hold onto hope that someday they will be legally married in Japan, with their son standing proudly by their side at their wedding.
Their concerns extend to their child’s future, contemplating how he will navigate the complexities of school and society. Aki articulates the driving force behind their aspirations, not just for their family but for others like them.
“What we truly desire is a society where the lives of children with same-sex parents are made easier,” she passionately asserts. “We advocate for the protection of LGBTQ+ individuals, both now and in the years to come. Concealing our true selves is not the solution; it’s time for us to be visible and protected.”
Published by HOLR Magazine.