Gay Malawi couple sentenced to 14 years in prison
"The gay couple, who got engaged publicly late last year, was found guilty of buggery and indecency on Tuesday in a trial viewed as a test case for gay rights in the country." (source)
This is absolutely shocking and disturbing to me, even in the wake of Uganda's proposed "Anti-Homesexuality Bill" that would see homosexual relations a crime punishable by death. I was aware that homosexuality is classified as a criminal offence in many African countries, but I am still shocked and horrified when SUCH extreme punishments are reported. I've heard it cited that one of the attitudes prevalent among homophobes in Africa is because it's seen as being "un-African", or a product of Western influence. Disturbingly, Wikipedia (I know, not THE most credible source) says the law criminalizing homosexual relations is "a sodomy law(s) inherited from British colonial rule". If that is not proof of how damaging colonialism is, even AFTER a people/country achieve independence, I don't know what is.
I am so glad that this case is recieving international attention, though. I hope something can be done about it, because 14 years prison... that is horriffic, and an immense betrayl of human rights.
It's hard to feel good about anything after reading the above linked articles, but I found a few articles on IDAHO (International Day Against Homophobia) in Kenya, and they are surprisingly positive:
"In Nairobi, gay rights activists assembled to mark the International Day Against Homophobia, where they demanded recognition and fairer treatment. Metropolitan Community Church priest the Rev. Michael Kimindu was at hand to lead prayers at the event - which was held at the prestigious National Museum. And, yes, the Kenya Human Rights Commission hosted the function" (source)
Considering that homosexuality is also illegal in Kenya, I imagine the fact that supporters of same-sex relations were allowed to openly rally/protest is a very encouraging and positive event. Given the fact that Kenya shares a border with Uganda (see "Anti-Homosexuality Bill", above), I am hugely relieved that Kenya seems more tolerant than it's neighbour. Not that I think Kenyans are better or deserve more rights than other East Africans, or people anywhere else in Africa, but "my" kids are in Africa... it kills me that they already face so many challenges, hardships. I don't want them to face MORE negativity.
Another article on IDAHO in Kenya:
"Ms Wanyeki, however, said despite the government allowing the gay community to meet the battle against harassment of and violence against sexual minorities is still on." (source)
This article feels a bit more "realistic" than the previous one, dealing with the past and present distrimination, stigma against homosexuals in Kenya, and issues that need to be addressed. Still though, it gives the impression of a possible step forward in gaining more rights and recognition.
This is absolutely shocking and disturbing to me, even in the wake of Uganda's proposed "Anti-Homesexuality Bill" that would see homosexual relations a crime punishable by death. I was aware that homosexuality is classified as a criminal offence in many African countries, but I am still shocked and horrified when SUCH extreme punishments are reported. I've heard it cited that one of the attitudes prevalent among homophobes in Africa is because it's seen as being "un-African", or a product of Western influence. Disturbingly, Wikipedia (I know, not THE most credible source) says the law criminalizing homosexual relations is "a sodomy law(s) inherited from British colonial rule". If that is not proof of how damaging colonialism is, even AFTER a people/country achieve independence, I don't know what is.
I am so glad that this case is recieving international attention, though. I hope something can be done about it, because 14 years prison... that is horriffic, and an immense betrayl of human rights.
It's hard to feel good about anything after reading the above linked articles, but I found a few articles on IDAHO (International Day Against Homophobia) in Kenya, and they are surprisingly positive:
"In Nairobi, gay rights activists assembled to mark the International Day Against Homophobia, where they demanded recognition and fairer treatment. Metropolitan Community Church priest the Rev. Michael Kimindu was at hand to lead prayers at the event - which was held at the prestigious National Museum. And, yes, the Kenya Human Rights Commission hosted the function" (source)
Considering that homosexuality is also illegal in Kenya, I imagine the fact that supporters of same-sex relations were allowed to openly rally/protest is a very encouraging and positive event. Given the fact that Kenya shares a border with Uganda (see "Anti-Homosexuality Bill", above), I am hugely relieved that Kenya seems more tolerant than it's neighbour. Not that I think Kenyans are better or deserve more rights than other East Africans, or people anywhere else in Africa, but "my" kids are in Africa... it kills me that they already face so many challenges, hardships. I don't want them to face MORE negativity.
Another article on IDAHO in Kenya:
"Ms Wanyeki, however, said despite the government allowing the gay community to meet the battle against harassment of and violence against sexual minorities is still on." (source)
This article feels a bit more "realistic" than the previous one, dealing with the past and present distrimination, stigma against homosexuals in Kenya, and issues that need to be addressed. Still though, it gives the impression of a possible step forward in gaining more rights and recognition.