17th May, 2023 is commemorated across the world as the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), we are joining in solidarity with the Ugandan LGBTQ+ community to speak out against the draconian Anti-Homosexuality Bill, 2023. The Bill was passed by Uganda’s Parliament and awaits action from President Museveni. If signed into law, it […]
Kuchu Times Editor
On this International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia, we call upon individuals, communities, and the government of Uganda to join us in actively combating discrimination and prejudice. We urge the rejection of discriminatory laws, the protection of LGBT+ rights, and the creation of an inclusive society where diversity is celebrated and everyone can live their lives authentically, free from fear and oppression.
The mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ Ugandans are deeply rooted in societal discrimination, stigma, and repressive laws. Addressing these issues necessitates a collective effort from government entities, civil society organizations, healthcare providers, and the community at large. By fostering safe spaces, promoting access to mental health services, advocating for policy reforms, and fostering education and awareness, it is possible to support the mental well-being of LGBTQ+ Ugandans and create a more inclusive and accepting society. Ultimately, the mental health of every individual, regardless of their sexual and gender identity. It is important to remember that mental health care is well, health care and is a right meant to be accessible to all Ugandans; no ifs or buts!
This is a compilation of some of the solidarity messages that the Ugandan LGBTQ+ community has received during this very trying time. We know that there is still a long way to go but we recognize and appreciate each and everyone that has walked this journey with us.
Mwebale Nyo!
“I am from Uganda and I know too well this persecution and violence. Those I left behind are contacting me everyday, panicked and desperate. We, the team at People Like Us (PLUS) are in contact with local Ugandan organizations and they desperately need your help.”
The oxymoron that comes with #TDOV 2023 is transgender people in Uganda have never been more afraid to be visible than they are right now. Matter of fact for our trans siblings, the best gift to share this day of visibility is the gift of invisibility! When 98% of the legislative house votes to criminalize your mere identity, you have no option but to shove your head back into the sand. As a nation we have told transgender people to undo whatever progress to the journey of freedom from their bodies and held them captive. Th life imprisonment sentence does not start the day the bill is enacted and unfortunately arrested; the life sentence begun the day a bill forbidding people from being who they are was passed.
We are a coalition of businesses from the technology, industrials, airline, financial services, healthcare, consumer products, entertainment and consulting sectors. This briefing is intended to express our concern at the Anti-Homosexuality Bill (AHB), which proposes harsh penalties for people perceived to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or non-binary (LGBTQ+) or those who support inclusion […]
Legislators do not only have a duty to legislate Law but impliedly, to pass good Law not influenced by biased public opinion but informed by International and Regional standards, most of which Uganda has signed and ratified. The Bill is a direct attack on sexual and gender identity. Article 21 of the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda as amended guarantees equality and freedom for all from discrimination on the ground of sex, race, colour, ethnic origin, tribe, birth, creed or religion, or social or economic standing, political opinion or disability. ‘Discrimination on the ground of sex’ appends respect for a private life, respect for family and a home.
A 2020 report by Bantwana Initiative of World Education carried out in Uganda on defilement and sexual harassment shows that, “19% of children reported that they had ‘played sex’ with an adult in the past six months. Of the 47% of children that reported receiving a ‘bad touch’ in the past six months, 50% identified a caregiver as the perpetrator, 33% identified a teacher and 17% identified a friend, stranger, or another family member as the perpetrator. Of the 32% of teachers that reported knowing a child that received a bad touch in the past six months, 56% (majority) identified a fellow student as the perpetrator. Where children knew a child that received a bad touch, 34% of children talked with a teacher and 25% talked to a friend.”
Hon. Members, do not to introduce Sexual Apartheid or “MaCarthyism” in Uganda. During the 1950s American Senator Joseph MaCarthy sowed fear and hatred by accusing several people of being communists—the most hated label that could be thrown at you during that time. The lives of politicians, authors, actors, scholars, journalists and many others were shattered by a claim with no basis; hundreds lost their jobs; they were ridiculed and condemned by the neighbours and friends; some even committed suicide as a result.