Together Always: United in Diversity – IDAHOBIT 2023

17th May 2023 – Today, on International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, Interphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT), the undersigned organisations celebrate the diversity within our families and communities. The theme, “Together always: united in diversity,” could not be more fitting. At a time when the LGBTQ+ community faces unprecedented challenges in Kenya and across the world, it is more important than ever to stand together in solidarity.
We acknowledge that our families are the foundation of society. Despite the looming family protection bill seeking to harm and destroy values protected in the Kenyan Constitution. It imposes a narrow and exclusionary definition of family. We stand in solidarity with families of all forms and continue to advocate for their protection and well-being.
We are deeply concerned about the rising insecurity facing the LGBTQ+ community in Kenya, both online and offline. Our community continues to face discrimination, persecution, and violence fueled by hateful remarks and intolerance from some religious leaders and politicians. The impact of these actions is felt not only by LGBTQ+ individuals but also by their families and friends. We call on all stakeholders, duty bearers and decision-makers locally and globally to lead by example, prioritise inclusivity and reject measures that seek to erase and undermine the existence of our LGBTQ+ families and communities in our society.
Finally, we offer a message of hope and solidarity to all LGBTQ+ people. Let’s recognise the progress made to advance LGBTQ+ and other human rights in Kenya as we acknowledge the significant work that remains. The struggle for equality and human rights is long, but we are not alone. We invite everyone to join us towards centring inclusivity and respect for diversity in all that we do.
Signed:
- galck+
- INEND
- NGLHRC
- Jinsiangu Kenya
- HAPA KENYA
- KYDESA
- Queerhive
- Amkeni Malindi
- LEHA Kenya
- Pema Kenya
- Ishtar MSM
- HOYMAS
- Q-Initiative
- Western Kenya LBQT Feminist Forum
- Western Kenya Situation Room Organisations.
- Usawa Kwa Wote Initiative (UKWELI)
- Public Health Innovations
- The Eagles for Life Kenya
- Health GAP