Kuchu Times Editor

News, Opportunities

A Very Queer Book Club

Are you passionate about LGBTQ+ stories? Do you crave a space to connect with others and explore diverse narratives? Then “A Very Queer Book Club” is for you!

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our book club dedicated to celebrating queer literature, with a special focus on voices of African and Ugandan authors. Join us as we delve into captivating stories, expand our understanding of queer experiences, and grow community.

News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: ANTI-GAY LAW COSTS UGANDA UP TO $1.6 BILLION IN JUST TWELVE MONTHS

A spokesperson for Open for Business said: “The evidence is now clear: the Anti-Homosexuality Act makes it harder for Uganda to foster a dynamic and diversified modern economy that attracts investors, tourists and skilled workers.
“Furthermore, not only has Uganda already made significant losses due to the introduction of this law, but these can only be expected to exacerbated further should the AHA remain in law without any amends or steps toward repeal. These are the steps Ugandan policy-makers should be considering in order to future proof their economy while creating a more liveable country for all citizens, not just those who are LGBTQ+.”

News

Biseksio – Abakikuba left right center!

One of the most insidious challenges bisexual people face is what we call “double stigma.” On one hand, they often encounter prejudice from the heterosexual community, where they are dismissed as “indecisive” or “just experimenting.” On the other hand, they may face exclusion from the homosexual community, where they are sometimes viewed as not “gay enough” or accused of having “straight privilege.” This double-edged discrimination, known as biphobia, leads to feelings of isolation and marginalization that can take a toll on mental health and social inclusion.

News

A Call for Justice and Accountability in the Face of Sexual Harassment in Police Custody

This complacency has, in turn, fueled public confusion and anger about homosexuality. The government’s selective enforcement of the law—targeting LGBTQ+ individuals while ignoring the abuse they suffered at the hands of law enforcement—has only deepened the mistrust and fear surrounding this issue. When we say we are fighting for the repeal of the Anti Homosexuality Act, we are fighting for the decriminalization of consensual relations between persons of the same sex.

News, Opportunities

Transforming Advocacy: QuestPro’s Leadership Academy

Applications are open until August 31st, inviting artists and activists alike to join this transformative journey towards leadership and empowerment. Together, we can create a ripple effect of change across Africa, driven by empowered and influential leaders committed to justice and equality for all. Apply now and be part of this transformative initiative!

News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CFE Petitions Supreme Court on the Anti Homosexuality Act, 2023.

“This is the next step in our demand for this horrific law to be thrown out and for our rights under theConstitution of Uganda to be respected and protected,” says Clare Byarugaba of Chapter Four Uganda and co-convener of CFE. “We have lived with the violence and discrimination of this law and its high time for ourJustices to see the error in the ruling of our Constitutional Court.”

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A Network of Hope: Shelters in Uganda Unite to Safely House LGBTQ People.

Although in April the Constitutional Court of Uganda declared sections of the law that criminalize renting premises to LGBTQ+ people unconstitutional, evictions persist and anti-homosexuality sentiments continue to rise. Some of these cases have been documented by the Human Rights Awareness and Promotion Forum, a local nonprofit. In February, they received reports of 32 evictions. The organization reports an increase in cases of violence and human rights violations based on sexual orientation, rising from three people in February to 20 in March. Some of these attacks are spilling over to service providers, such as lawyers, according to the nonprofit.

News

Ubuntu Law and Justice Centre Launches the Ubuntu Tales

Ubuntu Tales comes at a crucial time when the need for inclusive narratives and the recognition of diverse experiences is more pressing than ever. For many in our communities, living in a context that is inherently patriarchal, homophobic, and transphobic means facing daily threats of violence, subjugation, and denunciation. The Ubuntu Tales docuseries sheds light on these challenges while celebrating the resilience and courage of those who stand up for justice and equality.

The relevance of the Ubuntu Tales to our community cannot be emphasized. By capturing and sharing the lived experiences of SOGIESC human rights defenders, the series aims to dismantle harmful stereotypes and foster a deeper understanding of sexual and gender diversity. These narratives are essential in challenging societal misconceptions and prejudices, promoting a culture of empathy and solidarity.

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Start Talking, Harnessing Faith for Change: Women of Faith in Action Launches the Start Talking Campaign

Faith and human rights are not mutually exclusive; rather, they can complement each other in the pursuit of justice and equality. This campaign seeks to foster a meaningful dialogue on the intersection of faith and human rights, challenging faith communities to reflect on their values and teachings. By engaging religious leaders and congregations, Women of Faith in Action encourages a reinterpretation of religious texts and doctrines in ways that affirm the dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.