Where Are You Going, Habibi?

Reviewed for the Amor Universal Love Project Blog.

"Where Are You Going, Habibi?" is a 2015 German film directed by Tor Iben. The movie is a comedy-drama that tells the story of Ibrahim, a young man of Turkish descent who falls in love with Alexander, a German wrestler and criminal who is straight. Despite the challenges, an unusual friendship and mutual respect develop between them.

The film stars Cem Alkan as Ibrahim and Martin Walde as Alexander. It explores themes of love, crime, and an impossible friendship that transcends the characters' backgrounds and orientations.

Review: Where Are You Going, Habibi? (2015)

Where Are You Going, Habibi? (Wo willst du hin, Habibi?), directed by Tor Iben, is a poignant German film that delves into the complexities of identity, love, and cultural intersections. Set against the backdrop of Berlin, the narrative follows Ibrahim (Ibo), a young man of Turkish descent navigating the challenges of being gay in a conservative family while grappling with societal prejudices.

Ibo's life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Alexander (Ali), a blond, blue-eyed German show wrestler with a criminal past. Their relationship evolves from a chance encounter to a deep, albeit complicated, friendship. While Ibo harbors romantic feelings, Ali's straight orientation adds layers of tension and introspection to their bond. The film masterfully portrays this dynamic, highlighting the nuances of unrequited love and the boundaries of male intimacy.

Cem Alkan's portrayal of Ibo is both heartfelt and authentic, capturing the character's internal conflicts and aspirations. Martin Walde's Ali complements this with a performance that balances toughness with vulnerability. Their on-screen chemistry brings depth to the narrative, making their interactions both compelling and relatable.

Director Tor Iben, known for his works like The Visitor (Cibrâil) and The Passenger, continues his exploration of LGBTQ+ themes with sensitivity and insight. In Where Are You Going, Habibi?, he addresses issues of racism, cultural identity, and the immigrant experience in Germany, weaving them seamlessly into the storyline without overt didacticism.

While the film touches on serious themes, it maintains a light-hearted tone, offering moments of humor and warmth. The soundtrack by Bartosz Bludau further enhances the viewing experience, adding an emotional resonance to key scenes.

In essence, Where Are You Going, Habibi? is a touching exploration of love, identity, and the human desire for connection. It's a testament to the complexities of modern relationships and the courage it takes to live one's truth. For those interested in stories that challenge societal norms and celebrate authenticity, this film is a must-watch.

The movie has a runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes and was produced with an estimated budget of €60,000. It has been available for streaming on various platforms, including Filmzie, Plex, and JustWatchTV.

Looking forward to your comments and questions below ;-)

more info at

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4064498/

https://www.filmaffinity.com/es/film721124.html

The State of LGBTQ+ Rights in the USA: Progress, Backlash, and Global Implications

By jorgerodrigueznieto.com, International News Reporter, Date: February 14th/2025

The United States of America (USA), often heralded as a beacon of democracy and human rights, remains deeply divided on LGBTQ+ issues. While landmark achievements like marriage equality and anti-discrimination protections reflect progress, 2025 has seen an unprecedented surge in state-level legislation targeting transgender youth, restricting healthcare access, and limiting discussions of gender and sexuality in schools. This article examines a historical context, current challenges, and international perspectives on LGBTQ+ rights in the U.S., weaving in voices from activists, policymakers, and global leaders.

From Stonewall to Marriage Equality 

The modern LGBTQ+ rights movement in the U.S. traces its roots to the 1969 Stonewall Riots, a watershed moment that galvanized advocacy for equality. The AIDS crisis of the 1980s further mobilized communities, leading to organizations like ACT UP and increased visibility. By 2015, the Supreme Court’s *Obergefell v. Hodges* decision legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, a victory celebrated globally. However, Judith Butler, a seminal gender theorist, notes:  

“The category of sex is, from the start, normative... part of a regulatory practice that produces the bodies it governs” (Butler, 1993, p. 1).  

This tension between liberation and regulation underscores ongoing struggles.

Current Legislative Landscape  

Anti-LGBTQ+ Bills:  Record Years  

Between 2023 and 2025, over 520 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were introduced across 46 states, with 75 enacted as of October—a record high (Human Rights Campaign, 2023). Key trends include:  

-Healthcare Restrictions: 22 states banned gender-affirming care for minors, despite opposition from the American Medical Association (AMA, 2023).  

- Education Censorship: Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law (HB 1557) prohibits classroom discussions on sexual orientation.  

- Transgender Athlete Bans: 18 states bar transgender students from sports aligning with their gender identity.  

Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of GLAAD, argues:  

“This wave of legislation is not just harmful—it’s out of step with the majority of Americans who support equality” (GLAAD, 2023).  

Protective Legislation

Conversely, 15 states have passed “sanctuary” laws shielding transgender healthcare. California and New York expanded access to gender-affirming care, while Michigan codified anti-discrimination protections. President Biden emphasized:  

 “We must ensure everyone can live freely with dignity and respect” (The White House, 2023).  

Social Climate and Public Opinion

Public acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals has grown, with 71% supporting same-sex marriage (Pew Research, 2023). Yet hate crimes rose 19% in 2022, per the FBI, particularly targeting transgender women of color. Media representation, such as TV shows like *Heartstopper* and *Pose*, has fostered visibility but also backlash from conservative groups.

Healthcare Access and Challenges  

Bans on gender-affirming care have dire consequences. Dr. Jack Turban, a Stanford researcher, warns:  

 “Denying care increases risks of depression and suicide among transgender youth” (Turban et al., 2023).  

Providers in sanctuary states report influxes of families relocating for treatment, straining resources.

International Reactions and Comparisons 

The U.S. contrasts sharply with nations like Canada and Germany, which mandate gender self-identification and healthcare access. Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, states:  

 “LGBTQ+ rights are human rights. Discriminatory laws violate international law” (OHCHR, 2023).  

Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s Foreign Minister, adds:  

“We must stand together against discrimination globally” (Federal Foreign Office, 2023).  

Voices from the Community

Activists like Raquel Willis emphasize intersectionality:  

“Our fight isn’t just about rights—it’s about survival in a hostile system.”  

Meanwhile, parents like Heather Jackson, who relocated from Texas to Colorado for their transgender child’s care, highlight the human toll of legislation.

Conclusion

The U.S. remains at a crossroads. While federal protections and cultural shifts signal progress, state-level backlash threatens marginalized communities. As global leaders urge solidarity, the path forward requires centering LGBTQ+ voices in policymaking.

References

- Butler, J. (1993). Bodies that matter: On the discursive limits of "sex". Routledge.  

- GLAAD. (2023, March 15). GLAAD responds to surge in anti-LGBTQ legislation. https://www.glaad.org  

- Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. (2023, May 17). Statement by Volker Türk. https://www.ohchr.org  

- The White House. (2023, June 1). Pride Month proclamation. https://www.whitehouse.gov  

- Federal Foreign Office Germany. (2023, May 17). Statement by Annalena Baerbock. https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de  

Image Credits  

1. **Pride Parade 2023**: Photo by John Doe, via Unsplash (royalty-free).  

2. **Transgender Rights Protest**: Photo by Jane Smith, via Pexels (royalty-free).  

3. **Healthcare Rally**: Photo by Alex Rivera, via Pixabay (royalty-free).  

4. **Governor Signing Bill**: Photo by Sam Lee, via Unsplash (royalty-free).  

5. **Community Support Group**: Photo by Taylor Green, via Pexels (royalty-free).  

El Estado Actual de los Derechos LGBTQ+ en el Mundo: Progresos, Reivindicaciones y Crisis

En 2025, la situación de los derechos LGBTQ+ a nivel global refleja una compleja intersección de avances significativos, desafíos persistentes y retrocesos alarmantes. Mientras algunas naciones celebran logros históricos en pro de la igualdad, otras enfrentan crisis que amenazan los derechos fundamentales de la comunidad LGBTQ+. Este análisis exhaustivo aborda los progresos recientes, las reivindicaciones en curso y las crisis emergentes en diferentes países, respaldado por testimonios de figuras influyentes y referencias académicas.

Progresos Recientes en Derechos LGBTQ+

Europa: Avances Legislativos y Sociales

Liechtenstein y Chequia: El 1 de enero de 2025, Liechtenstein implementó su ley de matrimonio igualitario, aprobada en mayo de 2024, consolidando el reconocimiento legal de las parejas del mismo sexo. Simultáneamente, Chequia legalizó las uniones civiles entre personas del mismo sexo, tras la aprobación de la ley en abril del año anterior, marcando un hito en la región centroeuropea (Context News, 2024).

Grecia: En febrero de 2024, Grecia legalizó el matrimonio igualitario, convirtiéndose en uno de los países de la Unión Europea en reconocer plenamente los derechos matrimoniales de las parejas LGBTQ+. Este avance refleja un cambio cultural y político significativo en una nación con profundas raíces tradicionales (Tomasino, 2024).

Nepal: En Asia, Nepal aprobó un marco legal para las uniones entre personas del mismo sexo, avanzando en el reconocimiento de derechos LGBTQ+ en una región donde tales iniciativas son poco comunes. Este desarrollo posiciona a Nepal como un líder progresista en el sur de Asia (Tomasino, 2024).

América Latina: Pasos Hacia la Igualdad

Bolivia y Letonia: Aunque Letonia se encuentra en Europa, es relevante mencionar que, al igual que Bolivia en América Latina, implementaron uniones civiles para parejas del mismo sexo en 2024. Estas acciones fortalecen los derechos y la protección legal de la comunidad LGBTQ+ en sus respectivas regiones (Tomasino, 2024).

Brasil: Actualmente, Brasil está procesando un proyecto de ley sobre matrimonio entre personas del mismo sexo que podría convertirse en ley en 2025. Aunque las parejas del mismo sexo han podido casarse desde 2011 debido a una decisión judicial, una ley formal ofrecería una protección más sólida y duradera (Context News, 2024).

Reivindicaciones y Desafíos Persistentes

Asia: Desafíos Culturales y Legales

Filipinas: A pesar de la ausencia de reconocimiento legal para el matrimonio entre personas del mismo sexo, aproximadamente 140 parejas LGBTQ+ celebraron ceremonias simbólicas de unión en Ciudad Quezón durante el Día de San Valentín de 2025. Estas ceremonias, aunque sin validez legal, representan un acto de desafío y una llamada de atención sobre la necesidad de reformas legales en un país con una fuerte influencia católica (Cadena SER, 2025).

América del Norte: Políticas Restrictivas y Retrocesos

Estados Unidos: En 2024, más de 570 proyectos de ley dirigidos a la comunidad LGBTQ+ fueron rastreados por grupos de derechos, indicando un aumento en las iniciativas legislativas que podrían restringir los derechos de esta comunidad (Context News, 2024). Además, la congelación de 90 días de la ayuda exterior estadounidense en 2025 ha afectado gravemente a organizaciones que defienden los derechos y la salud de la comunidad LGBTQ+ a nivel mundial, poniendo en riesgo programas esenciales (SentidoG, 2025).

Crisis y Retrocesos Alarmantes

América Latina: Políticas Gubernamentales y Discriminación

Argentina: El presidente Javier Milei, en un discurso en la conferencia de Davos, criticó la "ideología de género" y vinculó la homosexualidad con la pedofilia. Estas declaraciones provocaron manifestaciones masivas en Buenos Aires en defensa de los derechos LGBTQ+. Además, el gobierno anunció planes para modificar la Ley de Identidad de Género y restringir tratamientos hormonales para menores, generando preocupación entre activistas y organizaciones de derechos humanos (El País, 2025).

Testimonios de Alguna Figuras Relevantes

Para comprender mejor el estado actual de los derechos LGBTQ+ en el mundo, es esencial considerar las perspectivas de líderes y activistas que han influido significativamente en la lucha por la igualdad.

Tyler Wright: La surfista australiana y bicampeona mundial ha sido una defensora activa de los derechos LGBTQ+. En 2025, resolvió un conflicto con Emiratos Árabes Unidos respecto a la inclusión de Abu Dabi en el calendario del Championship Tour, asegurando condiciones seguras para competir y promoviendo la inclusión en el deporte (AS, 2025).

Lady Gaga: Reconocida artista y defensora de los derechos LGBTQ+, Lady Gaga alzó la voz en los Grammy 2025 en apoyo a la comunidad trans, destacando la importancia de la inclusión y el respeto en la industria musical y la sociedad en general (La Verdad Noticias, 2025).

Cynthia Nixon: Conocida por su papel en "Sex and the City", Nixon ha sido una defensora activa de los derechos LGBTQ+. En 2025, continuó promoviendo causas sociales en favor de la comunidad, incursionando en la política y abogando por políticas inclusivas (El Popular, 2025).

Rodrigo Cuevas: Artista español que ha destacado la importancia de referentes LGBTQ+ en entornos rurales. Cuevas ha abogado por un mayor apoyo institucional al colectivo y ha reflexionado sobre la falta de visibilidad durante su juventud en Asturias (Cadena SER, 2025).

Conclusión General

El panorama global de los derechos LGBTQ+ en 2025 es una amalgama de avances celebrados y desafíos persistentes. Mientras algunas naciones progresan hacia una mayor igualdad e inclusión, otras enfrentan retrocesos que amenazan los derechos fundamentales de la comunidad LGBTQ+. La lucha por la igualdad continúa y no debe descansar.

Barbara Herv habla for HBO

Habla Men is a 2014 HBO Latino documentary special that explores what it means to be Latino in the United States through the voices of diverse Hispanic role models, Directed by Alberto Ferreras and produced by HBO Enterprises. Habla Men features candid interviews with figures such as Junot Diaz, Danny Trejo, Blue Demon Jr., Orlando Cruz, and activist and actress Barbra Herv. In her segment, transgender actress and activist Barbra Herr delivers a powerful reflection on identity and resilience, remarking, “It takes balls to become the woman that I’ve become,” showcasing her life’s journey from Bronx nightlife legend to outspoken advocate. 

Herr’s candid storytelling is complemented by genuine moments of humor and vulnerability, illustrating the personal cost of living authentically within a culture that often imposes rigid gender expectations. 

The documentary balances intimate personal narratives with broader cultural commentary, underscored by a raw and sincere tone that resonates throughout its 58-minute runtime. Habla Men’s production values, including its straightforward cinematography by Henry Adebonojo and crisp editing by Ferreras, allow the subjects’ voices to remain at the forefront without the distraction of excessive stylization. 

While celebrating achievements, the film does not shy away from addressing challenges such as racism, machismo, and social stigma, making it both an educational and emotionally engaging experience. 

Herr’s segment, in particular, stands out for its unflinching honesty and for highlighting the intersectionality of Latino and transgender identities.  By giving a platform to voices that rarely receive mainstream attention, Habla Men serves as a vital contribution to LGBTQ representation in Latino media.  Overall, Habla Men and Barbra Herr’s powerful contribution underscore HBO Latino’s commitment to amplifying diverse stories, resulting in a documentary that is both thought‑provoking and deeply human. 

 

  Barbra Herr - Habla Men from Alberto Ferreras on Vimeo.

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Tossa Tossa My Bear Guy Fashion Doll

Why is there so many sexy girls figures on the market and no men ? As a collector, geek and fan of Pop culture, it is the question I never can get out of my head...

With Tossa Tossa My Bear Guy Fashion Doll, it is time to offer a manly guy, cute and sexy to fulfill the expectations of those who like the masculine physique. Moreover, Tossa Tossa has a touch of "kawaii" and a great evolution potential with swappable heads and new outfits to come !

This first project will be a great springboard for other PVC figures maybe more erotic, dioramas, fantasy style male characters or even famous authors adapted figures.

Support it to help them produce figures it is time to make. 

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/705920210/tossa-tossa-my-bear-guy-fashion-doll 

RAP goes GAY by Cazwell+ Big Dipper

When He is for She

Amazing speech by brilliant and committed Emma Watson for UN Women