We demand anti-LGBTQ politician's resignation

We are citizens living in Osaka and other areas in Kansai. Here we demand Mio Sugita's resignation. She is a lawmaker affiliated with the Japanese ruling Liberal Democratic Party (the LDP), and wrote an article insulting LGBT (L = Lesbian; G = Gay; B = Bisexual ;T = Transgender).

In that article, Mio Sugita said "They (LGBT) do not produce children, so they are 'unproductive'. Is it okay to use our taxes on them? "

This is an unacceptable remark, because this is prejudiced and she is not understanding the situations surrounding LGBTQ people, especially people under 18. Her remark that childbirth should be a criterion for tax uses means that the state is pushing people to decide to have children. Thus, she disregards the "individual dignity" of all people.

Also, on the internet TV show of 29th July, the another LDP lawmaker Tom Tanigawa said "Homosexuality is like a hobby." Now we have to doubt the view of LDP itself. (Homosexuality is not hobby or preference but a sexual tendency formed by unconscious orientation, which cannot be easily changed.)

On August 1, the LDP finally issued a statement saying "the said person (Rep. Sugita) was told to be careful." And on August 2, the prime minister Shinzo Abe said "It is natural to make a society where human rights and diversity are respected." However, on the same day, the secretary general of LDP, Yasuhiro Nikai was slighting the situation. He commented on her remark and suggested her remark is "not big deal."

Rep. Sugita has not yet shown any regret or apology, and she has not held a press conference to fulfill accountability. She is not suitable anymore as a representative chosen by the people, this is why we demand her immediate resignation.

Moreover, pursuing a society where everyone's dignity is protected and everyone can live　their lives in their own way, we urge the LDP (1) to deal severely with Rep. Sugita and Rep. Tanigawa, and (2) to make a policy for sexual minorities immediately.