Global Archives - Page 8 of 170

World’s First Openly Gay Imam Shot Dead in South Africa

17Feb

By Aqsa AzamNo Comments

Global, Islam

World’s First Openly Gay Imam Shot Dead in South Africa

Muhsin Hendricks, an openly gay imam from South Africa, was tragically shot and killed near the city of Gqeberha. He founded the Al-Ghurbaah mosque in Wynberg, Cape Town. It is a safe space for queer Muslims and marginalized women to practice their faith. The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association has called on authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident. Muhsin Hendricks, widely regarded as the world’s first openly gay imam, was shot and killed near Gqeberha, South Africa, on Saturday. Local police confirmed the attack, stating that Hendricks was in a car when two masked gunmen ambushed the vehicle and opened fire. Hendricks, known for his advocacy for LGBTQ+ Muslims, founded the Al-Ghurbaah mosque in Cape Town, offering a safe space for margin...

The Sacred Matchmaking Shrine of Izumo, Japan

13Feb

By Aqsa AzamNo Comments

Culture, Global

The Sacred Matchmaking Shrine of Izumo, Japan

Izumo Taisha, also known as Izumo Grand Shrine, is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan. The shrine is said to be particularly popular with young people who are looking for love and marriage. Izumo Taisha is also a popular place to hold traditional Japanese weddings. Looking for love? The historic city of Izumo in Japan might just be the place for you. Home to Izumo Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, this city is known as the ultimate matchmaking destination. Every November, the gods of Japan are believed to gather in Izumo to decide human relationships for the coming year. This sacred event, called Kami-ari-dzuki (the month with gods), transforms the city into a powerful place of spiritual matchmaking. Singles from all over Japan visit Izumo...

Croatia Opens First Laughter Museum to Chase Away the Blues

12Feb

By Aqsa AzamNo Comments

Global

Croatia Opens First Laughter Museum to Chase Away the Blues

Croatia has opened the world's first laughter museum, called the HaHaHouse, in Zagreb. It's a fun and interactive space designed to make people happy and help them forget the stresses of modern life. Moreover, there's a karaoke room where you can sing along to your favorite songs with distorted voices. A new laughter museum in Zagreb, Croatia, is bringing joy to visitors by helping them shake off negativity through laughter and fun experiences. The HaHaHouse, founded by Andrea Golubic, offers interactive exhibits designed to boost happiness and bring out the inner child in everyone. The laughter-filled journey begins as visitors step inside and are greeted with a puff of white smoke meant to "blow away their worries." Next, they climb into a giant "washing machine" that spins them a...

Anti-Minority Hate Speech in India Increased by 74% in 2024

10Feb

By Aqsa AzamNo Comments

Global

Anti-Minority Hate Speech in India Increased by 74% in 2024

Reports indicate a concerning rise in anti-minority hate speech in India during 2024. The report states that 80% of hate speech incidents occurred in states governed by the BJP and its allies. A Washington-based research group has reported a 74% rise in hate speech against minorities in India during 2024. According to India Hate Lab, there were 1,165 recorded incidents of hate speech last year, compared to 668 in 2023. The surge in hate speech in India was majorly linked to the national elections held between April and June. Election Period Saw Highest Spike The report highlights that a third of these incidents occurred between March 16 and June 1, coinciding with peak election campaigning. Hate speech was observed at political rallies, religious processions, protests, and cultur...

Argentina Canal Turns Blood-Red, Residents Fear Pollution

7Feb

By Aqsa Azam1 Comment

Global, Health

Argentina Canal Turns Blood-Red, Residents Fear Pollution

An Argentina canal has turned blood-red, alarming residents who suspect pollution is to blame. Residents have reported that this is not the first time the canal has changed color, with previous incidents involving bluish, greenish, pinkish, and even yellowish hues. They have also described a foul stench emanating from the canal. A canal in the Greater Buenos Aires area turned bright red on Thursday, sparking concerns among residents about potential chemical contamination. The Sarandí stream, which flows into the Rio de la Plata near an ecological reserve, was seen carrying deep red water, causing alarm in the community. Locals fear the unusual color in Argentina canal change may be due to toxic waste dumping. Some speculate that aniline contamination or chemical spills from nearby indu...