Convening For Equality (CFE), a global community of LGBTQ+ persons, allies, and organizations dedicated to challenging anti-LGBTQ+ laws, stigma, and attitudes in Uganda, has been honored with the prestigious Democracy Courage Tribute Award 2024. The award was presented during the World Movement for Democracy’s 12th Assembly, a significant platform that unites democracy advocates from around the globe.
The Democracy Courage Tribute Award recognizes extraordinary individuals and organizations that demonstrate unyielding bravery in the face of adversity while promoting democratic principles. By bestowing this award on CFE, the international community acknowledges the CFE’s relentless pursuit of justice and equality for Uganda’s LGBTQ+ community.
Pepe Julian Onziema, a prominent Ugandan LGBTQ+ activist and one of CFE’s key leaders, reflected on the significance of the recognition, stating:
“This recognition honors every LGBTQ+ person who dares to live authentically despite brutal criminalization. It proves that courage is contagious and strengthens our resolve to challenge oppression and fight for universal freedom and dignity.”
Clare Byarugaba, CFE co-convener, underscored the need for solidarity across movements for justice and human rights. In her remarks, she emphasized:
“Just as we fight side by side with you against bad governance, poverty, violence against women and girls, dictatorship, authoritarian regimes, we appeal to you to fight for the rights of LGBTIQ individuals to live in dignity, free from discrimination and violence. State-sponsored hate and violence will always crumble when met with a united people that refuse to be silenced in the face of all forms of injustice.”
CFE’s work is rooted in data, advocacy, legal support, and the amplification of LGBTQ+ voices in Uganda, where LGBTQ+ individuals face criminalization and state-sponsored persecution particularly in the wake of the Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023. By uniting activists, civil society organizations, and allies worldwide, CFE aims to challenge oppressive systems and foster a society where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can live with dignity and freedom.
The Democracy Courage Tribute Award 2024 not only shines a spotlight on the courageous efforts of CFE but also calls on the global community to stand in solidarity with Uganda’s LGBTQ+ community. The fight for justice, equality, and human rights is a collective endeavor, and this award serves as a rallying cry for continued global advocacy against anti-LGBTQ+ laws and stigma.
About CFE
Convening For Equality (CFE) is a global community of LGBTQ+ persons, allies, and organizations dedicated to challenging anti-LGBTQ+ laws, stigma, and attitudes in Uganda. CFE does this through research and data collection, advocacy, education, and legal support.
