Despite hopes for reform, the recent revisit of the Anti-Homosexuality Act did little to alleviate the plight of journalists and LGBTQ+ activists. The only revisions that were made in this regard were to allow for academic related publication of LGBTQ-themed work, the fundamental clause equating reporting with promotion remained intact. This subtle yet significant omission reaffirms the state’s commitment to censorship when it comes to LGBTQ reporting, perpetuating a culture of silence and invisibility.
Kuchu Times Editor
As Ugandans, it’s time to confront a crucial question: Does consensual relations between adults of the same sex truly bother us to the extent that we are willing to sacrifice the principles of equality, dignity, and progress in our own country? Is the pervasive hate towards LGBTQ+ individuals a valid justification for enduring poor leadership and enduring the consequences of bad legislation? Are consensual relationships between adults of the same sex truly a threat to our society? Do they pose a danger to our families, our communities, or our way of life? No! Do you know what causes threats to our societies, when people who need services cannot access them because of laws created in prejudice. It is time to examine if really the whole nation is not serving time for this crime of being silent towards marginalization.
A recurring and distressing reality uncovered through our research is the prevalence of sexual assault perpetrated under the guise of ‘correcting’ the sexual orientation of LGBTQ individuals. Close family members and community members often exploit their positions of trust to subject LGBTQ+ individuals to various forms of sexual violence in an attempt to force them to conform to societal norms. This insidious form of abuse not only violates the rights and autonomy of LGBTQ+ individuals but also perpetuates cycles of trauma and fear.
The verdict’s impact on the LGBTQ+ community in Uganda is profound, amplifying the existing challenges faced by sexual and gender minorities. The inability to officially register organizations like SMUG limits our capacity to access resources, engage in advocacy, and provide essential support services. This setback not only impedes the community’s ability to foster unity but also leaves us susceptible to heightened discrimination, violence, and exclusion.
Furthermore, the court’s decision reinforces the hostile environment created by the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, making it increasingly difficult for LGBTQ+ individuals to lead open and authentic lives. The fear of persecution and legal consequences looms larger, pushing many members of the community further into the shadows.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme “Invest in women: Accelerate progress’ resonates deeply with our work and mission at both UNESO and UBUNTU. Women cannot achieve progress at any rate let alone an accelerated rate unless they can live violence-free lives. Women in Uganda are being massacred and living under a constant threat of femicide, an extreme manifestation of violence against women. The picture is particularly grim for marginalised communities including sex workers and sexual and gender minorities who face intersecting and multiple vulnerabilities, inequalities, and criminalisation.
According to the police annual crime report 2022, a total of 17,698 country-wide Gender Based Violence cases with related murders were reported for women. The Demographic and Health Survey 2016, indicates that women are more than twice as likely to experience violence as opposed to their male counterparts.
The decision to suspend SMUG’s operations was not only a blatant violation of freedom of association but also a grave injustice against LGBTQ+ individuals who rely on the organization for advocacy, protection, and solidarity. It sent a chilling message of intolerance and hostility towards sexual and gender minorities, further marginalizing already vulnerable communities.
Despite facing adversity, SMUG has refused to be silenced. In the face of repression, the organization has continued to resist, adapt, and innovate. Through online platforms, grassroots activism, and international solidarity networks, SMUG has persevered in its mission to advance LGBTQ+ rights and amplify the voices of those who are often silenced.
“It’s not just a personal recognition; it’s a recognition of the collective efforts of all those who believe in the inherent dignity and rights of every individual,” Hillary expressed, his eyes reflecting a profound sense of purpose. “The award, named after David Kato, is a reminder that our work is not in isolation but part of a larger movement striving for justice, equality, and respect for human rights.”
Uganda, still grappling with the effects of the Anti Homosexuality Act, 2023 that was passed over 250 days ago. We have witnessed first hand what anti rights legislation can do to marginalized communities from physical attacks to homelessness to unemployment and so on.
The passing of a similar law in Ghana could serve as a catalyst for regressive forces within the rest of Africa, igniting debates on the criminalisation of consensual adult same-sex relationships in other countries.
This history month. Kuchu Times Media Group will run a campaign titled, “What do LGBTQ+ people deserve?” Engaging with LGBTQ+ activists to discuss what LGBTQ+ individuals deserve is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, activists are on the front lines of the ongoing struggle for equality and rights, possessing firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Their insights provide a nuanced understanding of the specific needs and aspirations of the community.
In the midst of these challenges, Grindr has emerged as a crucial space for the LGBTQ community to connect, find support, and seek relationships. However, recent reports of homophobes infiltrating this safe space by creating fake accounts have raised alarm. It is essential to acknowledge that Grindr remains a vital platform for queer individuals to express themselves, find companionship, and build relationships. The focus should not be on abandoning this space but on navigating it more wisely.