can treat each other with respect and dignity". Local activists applauded his comments, calling it a "very surprising and progressive act". Living conditions Open displays of affection between same-sex partners may offend. In Palauan, the terms (which literally translates to carrying a large driftwood) and (banana eater) refer to homosexual men. They are considered derogatory. Several gay Palauans choose to emigrate to neighboring Guam or the United States due to societal rejection they may face at home. Summary table See also Human rights in Palau LGBT rights in Oceania References LGBT in Palau Politics of Palau Human rights in Palau Palau