Homophobia Alive and Well

Uganda, Uganda, Uganda.... just a few days ago PHG was so happy with you for the progress you made to put an end to FGM. Now look at you:

The proposed Anti-Homosexuality Bill of 2009 currently being reviewed in Uganda carries with it serious legal consequences for anyone in favor of the freedom to choose who you schtup.

The bill includes jail sentences for consensual gay sex and even a life sentence to people in same-sex marriages! Luckily some of the more drastic measures of the bill (execution) have been removed, but the proposal is still a serious threat to homosexuals and their supporters.

Much like during the Nazi rule of Germany, the bill encourages people to turn in their fellow citizens, as it would jail anyone who does not report "gay activity" to police within 24 hours. Aside from the threat to citizens of Uganda, the country would also withdraw from any international treaties or protocols that recognize or support gay rights.


Secratary of State, Hilary Clinton has publicly lambasted the Anti-gay bill, calling it a "very serious potential violation of human rights."



Though homosexuality has been illegal in Uganda for over 100 years, this bill has the potential to shape the future of the country as it takes a much more definitive stance on the issue of gay rights. Though the majority of the country appears to back the bill, it is incredibly difficult for Ugandans to speak out against criminalizing homosexuality. Those who try to support homosexuals - or even advocate HIV/AIDS treatment and awareness - are persecuted as harshly as those who engage in gay sex or relationships.

David Bahati, author of the bill, voices the country's severe stance on homosexuality and so-called "sympathizers."

"Anybody who does not believe that homosexuality is a crime is a sympathizer," says Bahati. "Providing literature, writing books about it, standing up and saying it is OK — you should be arrested. Even if you are not in the act, you should be arrested. Anybody who tries to promote it should be arrested."

 Well, Bahati, get out your hand cuffs while you can... because PHG thinks you're a bigoted a--hole who's goin' down! Though it's taking longer than many would like, this kind of narrow-minded, cowardly thinking is not the future.