A Last Hope for Uganda's Anti-Gay Law
Powerful. Frightening. Heartbreaking.
http://www.worldpolicy.org/blog/2014/02/25/last-hope-ugandas-anti-gay-law
A Last Hope for Uganda's Anti-Gay Law
February 25, 2014
By Patrick Balbierz
In a steep downturn for human rights, Uganda President Yoweri Museveni signed a national anti-gay bill into law earlier this week. The new law prohibits the “promotion” of homosexuality, carrying with it sentences of seven to 14 years in prison for homosexual acts. Allowing homosexuality in one’s home or even publicly arguing for LGBT rights is illegal. Repeat offenders can face up to life in prison. Promoting a culture of hate and hostility towards the LGBT community, the law threatens many people’s lives. The international community must continue to put political pressure on Uganda to repeal this discriminatory law.
While human rights activists are up in arms, world leaders have been critical of the bill. President Obama called the new law, “a step back for all Ugandans,” while Sweden had threatened to withdraw aid when the death penalty was originally in the bill, (this clause was later removed). Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a prominent spiritual leader in Africa, slammed the bill, saying that, “there is no scientific justification for prejudice and discrimination, ever. And nor is there any moral justification.” He even went as far as to compare the new law to Nazi-like hatred...
...I used to be religious, but I’m not anymore. I lost my religion because of all the hatred preached by the Christians here. I’d rather go to my room and pray by myself to God. I know that God is there,” he continued.
“In the bill, they mixed homosexuality with rape and assault. They can't compare us to animals, witch doctors, rapists. We are normal people who love each other. We're not here by choice. If you're gay, you're gay. Accept it," said another unidentified person....
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