Doctor Strange praised by LGBT charity for representation amid ban in Saudi Arabia: ‘It will mean so much’
Benedict Cumberbatch as the returning Steven Strange, features a lesbian couple in one scene (who are also referenced elsewhere in the film).One of the main characters, America Chavez (played by Xochitl Gomez), also wears a pin of the Progress Pride flag, an updated design of the rainbow Pride flag created to celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQ community.
While not much is said about her sexuality in the film, she is thought to be LGBT.Sasha Misra, Associate Director of Communications and Campaigns at Stonewall told Metro.co.uk: ‘It’s fantastic to see visible representation of LGBTQ+ people in one of the world’s most popular franchises. ‘You can’t be what you can’t see, and this sign of acceptance and inclusion will mean so much to LGBTQ+ people around the globe.’The scenes haven’t been as well received everywhere though, with the film being banned in Saudi Arabia, according to The Hollywood Reporter.To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 videoHomosexuality is illegal across the Gulf, therefore, films featuring LGBTQ+ references or issues often fail to get past censors.Benedict recently spoke out on the ban, criticising ‘repressive regimes’ for their ‘lack of tolerance’ and said it is proof of the importance of including characters from different backgrounds.He told PA: ‘It’s difficult not to become emotional about it, to be honest.
But it is, I’m afraid, an expected disappointment.‘We’ve come to know from those repressive regimes that their lack of tolerance is exclusionary to people who deserve to be not only included but celebrated for who they are, and made to feel a part of a society and a culture and not punished for their sexuality.’Benedict also.
