Chinese social media giant WeChat shuts down LGBT accounts

• WeChat, China’s most popular social media platform, deleted dozens of accounts on LGBT topics on Tuesday.
• They sent out notices of rule violations but did not give specifics.
• It is still unclear whether the decision was made by WeChat’s operator or ordered by Chinese authorities.

WeChat, China’s most popular social media service, reportedly deleted dozens of accounts on LGBT topics at about 10 p.m. on Tuesday.

Users whose accounts were shut down received a notice that they violated the platform’s rules, but were not given specific details, according to an LGBT group founder who wished to remain anonymous.

All content of the WeChat accounts in question were erased, including personal stories and photos of group events.

While it’s still unclear whether the decision was made by WeChat’s operator, Tencent Holding Ltd., or ordered by Chinese authorities, the ruling party has been tightening political controls by trying to silence groups that might criticize its rule.

According to state media, about 5% (70 million) of the Chinese population identify as LGBT.

Homosexuality was decriminalized by the Communist Party back in 1997. However, members of the LGBTQ+ community are still facing discrimination. Authorities have also blocked some LGBT activities and public discussion of such issues.

The LGBT group founder said that the authorities have become increasingly strict about the matter.

Film festivals and other public events have previously been organized by a few groups, but these events have dwindled. Prominent group Shanghai Pride had canceled last year’s events and future plans without explanation after 11 years of operation.

The WeChat move felt like a devastating blow to a former operator of a different group for university students, who also asked to remain anonymous for fear of retaliation.

Two months ago, students were asked by university officials to shut down LGBT social media groups or at least avoid mentioning their school names, said the LGBT group founder. Authorities also reportedly told universities in the eastern province of Jiangsu to investigate groups for women’s rights and sexual minorities to “maintain stability.”

Two years ago, the public had suggested legalizing same-sex marriage, but China’s legislators have given no indication whether they would take action.

Source: Aol.com