The LGBTI community of Uganda is treated to some of the worst discrimination – both institutional and cultural – in the world. Anti-LGBTI laws are wide-ranging and include up to the death penalty. Newspapers regularly “out” people publicly against their will and violence is common.
Despite this, a small but brave group continue to advocate for LGBTI rights despite knowing this makes them a visible target for opposition. And they just might be making some inroads.
Dr. Frank Mugisha has been the most prominent voice for Uganda’s LGBT community for decades. Frank has won the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award and Thorolf Rafto Memorial Prize for his activism. As the Executive Director of Sexual Minorities Uganda, he has given a voice to many, who are unable to raise theirs, in a country where homosexuality is still outlawed.