Homophobia in Uganda

In this class we have talked a lot about homosexuality and homophobia in sport. While it doesn’t directly relate to sport, I stumbled upon a video on CNN that discusses the controversy about a new law that is going to be voted on next year in Uganda. (You can watch the most recent video HERE.)

This law (which hasn’t been passed yet, but is receiving wide support from Ugandan religious and political organizations) would impose a possible lifetime jail sentence on anyone found guilty of “the offence of homosexuality,” “homosexual acts,” or “the intent to commit homosexual acts.” Even just the intent to commit homosexual acts can be punished by the Ugandan government by a life sentence. Even more extreme, serial, or repeat offenders will face the death penalty. Yes, the death penalty. If this law passes, homosexuals in Uganda will face death simply for having sex with the person of their choosing.

Governments and human rights groups from around the world have been expressing their concern about this potential law. The United States' own Hillary Clinton commented in the video “we view [the law] as a very serious potential threat to human rights.” Even a country that does not allow gay marriage in all of its states is expressing concern over this potential law.

While this law may not directly affect the United States or directly relate to sports and gender, it is a display of homophobia that cannot be ignored. I think it is incredible that laws like this can still be considered in this day in age. I think that it is ridiculous to sentence people to life in prison, or worse, sentence people to death, simply because they choose to stray away from the cultural norm. This video article brings up great discussion topics, and I am sure it will spark much debate around the world.