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Lesbos Islanders Sue Gays on Name

We're the only Lesbians, Greeks insist in lawsuit

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted May 2, 2008 7:50 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Residents of the Greek island of Lesbos have decided that lesbianism is the love that must change its name, the BBC reports. Islanders, fed up with the word being used to denote sexual orientation, are suing a Greek gay rights organization with "lesbian" in its name and say if they succeed they'll take their campaign global.

The islanders are arguing that only residents and expatriates have the right to use the name—and claim that the better-known use of the word causes them "daily problems." The use of "lesbian" for gay women originated from the island's most famous resident, the 7th-century BC poet Sappho who expressed her love for other women in erotic verse.

Lesbos islanders suing over the use of the word 'lesbian' claim their human rights are being violated.
Lesbos islanders suing over the use of the word 'lesbian' claim their human rights are being violated.   ((c) ale3andro)
The islanders of Lesbos are challenging the use of the word lesbian for gay women.
The islanders of Lesbos are challenging the use of the word "lesbian" for gay women.   (AP Photo/Douglas C. Pizac)
The island of Lesbos wants lesbians to stop using that name.
The island of Lesbos wants lesbians to stop using that name.   (Shutter Stock)
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Islanders challenge word's established usage
Times (UK)

Gay activist: Lawsuit is 'pathetic and scary'
Pinknews.co.uk

 
lesbians • homosexuality • lawsuit • Greece • civil lawsuits

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