3 LGBT danger zones (Belarus, Uganda, Somalia)

Colin Stewart is a 45-year journalism veteran living in Southern…

BELARUS

Another proposed ban on ‘gay propaganda’

Politicians in Belarus have proposed banning “gay propaganda” there, joining Ukraine in considering whether to follow in the footsteps of Russia.

On July 9, the Belarusian Liberal Democratic Party stated that it wanted such a law, claiming that “under the guise of protecting the rights of sexual minorities is the promotion and advocacy of homosexuality, especially among minors, thus destroying the family and public morality.” (Account based on Google translation of GAYBY.NET article)

UGANDA and CANADA

Canadian Prime Minister under fire for aid to group critical of gays

The federal government has received scores of letters and emails over government funding being provided to an organization that referred to homosexuality as a “perversion” and “sin.”

The Canadian Press reported earlier this year on the $544,813 contract to Christian Crossroads Communications for humanitarian work in Uganda. The government briefly announced a freeze in funds but later revised its position. (Canada.com)

The Ottawa Citizen reported that 120 emails and letters criticized the action, while 50 supported it. One stated, “Are you not aware at how many gay people are being killed and harassed because of anti-gay Christian organizations?” Another: “There are plenty of groups willing to dig latrines without endangering our gay brothers and sisters.”

A supporter wrote: “All they are doing is providing a necessity to human clean water. When you examine their track record, very few organizations have had the success they have had.”

SOMALIA

Gay Somali refugees face death threats: Gay, lesbian and HIV-infected refugees fear violent persecution should they return home

Dominica LGBT activist says queer people still aren’t free

Nairobi, Kenya – Gay, lesbian and HIV-infected refugees from Somalia are facing persecution – and even the threat of death – should they return home.

Refugees have been under pressure to leave accommodations in Kenya, where many also face racist discrimination, after claims the country is now significantly safer than when Al-Shabaab had control of Mogadishu.

But many gay Somalis say returning is not an option for them.

“Warlords have made Somalia a death chamber for gays and lesbians,” said Jamal, a Somali journalist. “It is against international law to force such groups back to Somalia, given the risks.” …

“I have no doubt all gays, lesbians, HIV/AIDS positive people and other minorities will be killed. It will be a massacre,” claimed Said Elmi, a 25-year-old taxi driver. …

“I fled Bossaso [in northern Somalia] ten years ago, when a friend informed me and my partner that we were set to be arrested and prosecuted for imitating women and committing indecent acts,” revealed Elmi. (Aljazeera.com)