Let's make LGBTIs live 'freely' in Ghana - Solace Foundation

Solace B. Foundation (SBF) has said it is pleased to join all Lesbians, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex (LGBTI) persons and their loved ones to mark International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).

A statement issued by the SBF said: “This day is an invitation to all and sundry to focus on the battle against prejudice, discrimination, and the injustice that so many Lesbians, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex (LGBTI) people face on a daily basis and our role in ending any form of violence and discrimination. We are aware that the fight against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia has not been fully won anywhere and Ghana is not an exception. We are presently a part of 76 countries around the world that continue to criminalise same sex sexual activities even when it's between two consenting adults.

“We (governments, individuals, institutions, etc.) have roles to play in ensuring that LGBTI people can live their lives openly and freely without fear of torture and abuse.

“The theme for this year's IDAHOBIT focuses on family, it’s a reminder to us as a society to embrace LGBTI people with all dignity and respect. We believe that no one should be oppressed and persecuted simply for being who they are. Let us not hide behind the veils of religion and culture to justify our fear and hatred for our friends, brothers, sisters, children based on what we assume they do or should look like. Homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia should and must not prevail in our society.

“As we mark this day, we at SBF call for renewed attitudes and dedicated efforts both domestically and globally to stamp out hate, inhuman and cruel treatment in all forms. Sexual orientation, gender identity and expression should not inspire hate. We hope to see a Ghana that accepts, respects and treats all persons with dignity and respect regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity and expression.

“Long live our LGBTI community. Long live Ghana. Long live SBF.”