Mexico: Yucatán legalizes same-sex marriage, bans conversion therapy
Them reported on August 30 that the Mexican state of Yucatán has legalized same-sex marriage and outlawed conversion therapy. The legislature redefined marriage in the state's constitution as between two people rather than opposite-sex couples only, and imposed a penalty of up to three years in prison for those who practice conversion therapy — or twice as long if the practice is inflicted on a minor. Them noted that Yucatán is the 22nd state in Mexico to legalize same-sex marriage, and after the Supreme Court ruling in favor of the state's legislation, the remaining 11 states may face legal pressure to follow suit.

Madrid: Hundreds protest against rising anti-Gay violence
Reuters reported September 12 on a protest in Madrid against a rise in homophobic attacks in the country. Hundreds turned out for the event, calling for greater protections of LGBTQ rights with signs bearing messages like "justice" and "touch one of us, touch us all." Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez had called an emergency meeting the day before to discuss how to reduce hate crimes, which have grown about 9% since 2014. Among the victims of said violence was nursing assistant Samuel Luiz, who was beaten to death in July.