By Eugenia López Uribe
Regional Director of IPPF ACRO
The recent decision by the High Court of St Vincent and the Grenadines to uphold the criminalisation of consensual same-sex activity is deeply regressive and unacceptable. Despite global progress towards LGBTQI+ ‘s rights, this decision aims to perpetuate colonial-era laws and asan organization committed to equality and the access to healthcare for all, IPPF ACRO stands with Javin Johnson and Sean Macleish, the two gay men who demanded a change in the law in their country, so they can live free from discrimination, prejudice and enjoy the same rights as all citizens.
By supporting Johnson and Macleish, we also support all LGTBQ+ community in in St Vincent and the Grenadines. They should not continue to be let down, it is their government obligation to guarantee their right to live healthy lives, free from any stigma, prejudice and violence
Besides, it is concerning to witness setbacks on other continents and IPPF is also taking action about the recent decision by Ghana's parliament to intensify the crackdown on the rights of LGBTQ+ people by imposing a prison sentence of up to five years for the "wilful promotion, sponsorship, or support of LGBTQ+ activities".
Both recent decisions indicate the continued pressure from fundamentalist groups seeking to regress and perpetuate colonial and backward views on gender and sexual diversity. However, from our side, we will continue to work tirelessly around the world to stop these regressive laws and to defend the rights of LGTBQ+ communities.
These decisions affect the lives of millions of people who are once again at the center of violence supported by governments that should not be criminalizing them for being who they are, for loving who they love. We all have equal sexual and reproductive rights. Let us be clear: we will intensify our efforts against those regressive laws. And we know we will succeed.
when
country
Ghana, St Vincent
region
Americas & the Caribbean
Subject
LGBTI+
Related Member Association
St. Vincent Planned Parenthood Association
These decisions affect the lives of millions of people who are once again at the center of violence supported by governments that should not be criminalizing them for being who they are, for loving who they love.
IPPF Americas and the Caribbean Regional Office (ACRO) condemns any legislation that discriminates based on sexual orientation or gender identity. We firmly believe in the inherent dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
