Uganda is now one of the most dangerous countries to be LGBTQI+ after President Museveni signed a new bill into law.
Hi John,
It's official. Uganda is now one of the most dangerous countries to be LGBTQI+ following the passing of a law that criminalises homosexuality.
Signed into law by President Museveni, the legislation calls for the death penalty for certain same-sex acts.
Since it came into law this May a wave of homophobia has spread across the country. Those openly identifying as LGBTQI+ face increasing hostility and even legal persecution.
The law also decrees a 20-year sentence for “promoting” homosexuality. Historically, activists in this region have been arrested, attacked, threatened, and even killed for carrying out their legitimate work advocating for LGBTQI+ rights. This new legislation has had an immediate chilling effect on organisations that advocate for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) people.
It is feared that governments in Kenya and Tanzania may follow suit with many politicians voicing their support online for enacting similar measures.
Womankind Worldwide, as a organisation that centres an intersectional feminist approach, has been a supporter of LGBTQI+ rights since its founding in 1989. We stand in solidarity with all LGBTQI+ people, organisations, and activists in Uganda who are impacted by this new law. We also stand with the movement of women’s rights organisations in Uganda who are publicly voicing LGBTQI+ support in spite of the backlash.
Please join us in condemning this oppression, violence, and discrimination against LGBTQI+ persons in Uganda. Click below to add your name in solidarity this Pride month.
We will share these messages with LGBTQI+ activists in Uganda in the coming weeks. We hope they might find encouragement from messages of support from around the world.
With best wishes,
Hannah Little
Supporter Care Team Womankind Worldwide
