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.
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“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.”
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.
Section 14 of the Anti Homosexuality Act 2023 states that, “a person who is otherwise prevented by privilege from making a report under sub section (I) shall be immune from any action arising from the disclosure of the information without consent or waiver of privilege first being obtained or had,” This statement speaks directly to doctor-patient privilege making the walls to health access higher. The Ministry of Health could argue that they released a statement instructing medical practitioners to not discriminate but since when do statements hold weight over laws? The only solution to this inequality is to repeal the draconian law altogether.
Today, the legal battle challenging the constitutionality of Uganda Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 took a significant step forward before His Lordship Justice Kiryabwire at the constitutional court in Kampala. CFE legal representatives alongside others appeared for case conferencing on all 4 petitions (i.e. 14,15,16 and 85 to agree on facts and issues.
Kuchu Times Media Group is proud to announce the 7th edition of Bombastic magazine. This edition focuses on the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This personal edition seeks to amplify the voices and experiences of the LGBT community in Uganda, shedding light on the unique challenges faced during these trying times. The COVID-19 […]
It is a shame that religion, a source of solace and guidance for many, has been manipulated to peddle homophobia. It is important for faith leaders to revisit the teachings of Christ, recognizing that the essence of Christianity lies in love, acceptance, and compassion. Let your pulpits be spaces where the message of inclusivity resounds, challenging the narrative that has perpetuated homophobia. Leaders should lead by example, fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels welcomed and embraced within the loving arms of the faith community.
“Despite our concerted efforts to stop the passage of the Anti-Homosexuality Bill, the President has today legalized state-sponsored homophobia and transphobia by signing this bill into law. It will erode the inherent rights of LGBTIQ individuals and put innocent Ugandans at cross hairs of grave violations from State and non-state actors. We now look forward to the legal challenge in court, and the law being repealed,” said Frank Mugisha of Sexual Minorities Uganda (SMUG).
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 […]
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.