Demand Justice for Ugandan LGBT Activist David Kato

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Please click on and sign Demand Justice for Ugandan LGBT Activist David Kato

From Amnesty International, USA

Last fall, Ugandan LGBT activist David Kato successfully sued a national newspaper that published the article “100 Top Ugandan Homos” with the caption “hang them.” On January 26, Kato was brutally murdered in his home, the latest tragic example of the constant threat so many LGBT people face in Ugandan.

The Obama administration must ensure that the Ugandan government works to end discrimination against LGBT people. And the US Government must—as we all must—demand justice for David Kato.

MESSAGE TEXT

I would like to express my deep concern at the recent murder of David Kato, LGBT activist and founding member of Sexual Minorities Uganda, and I call on you to urge the government of Uganda to ensure that David’s death is investigated in an impartial and credible manner. Any persons suspected of involvement in the murder must be brought to justice in a fair trial which complies with international standards.

David’s brutal murder is a solemn reminder that discrimination based on sexual orientation continues to pose a serious threat to the wellbeing of LGBT people in Uganda. Securing justice for this reprehensible act is an opportunity for the Ugandan government to send a clear message that discrimination against and acts of violence targeting the LGBT community will not be tolerated. I ask you to ensure the opportunity is not missed.

Specifically, I ask that you:

Urge Ugandan officials to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation of the murder of David Kato, and hold accountable those responsible.

Encourage the Ugandan government to take immediate action to end discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. These efforts should include addressing hate speech and the publishing of personal information in tabloid newspapers.

Insist that all cases of violence committed on the basis of gender identity or sexual orientation in Uganda are promptly investigated and the perpetrators brought to justice in fair trials.

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Ugandan gay rights activist bludgeoned to death | From CNN

Kampala, Uganda (CNN) — A Ugandan gay rights activist whose name was published on a list of the nation’s “top homosexuals” was bludgeoned to death in his home near the capital, his lawyer said Thursday.

A neighbor found David Kato dead and notified authorities, according to the lawyer, John Onyango.

Kato’s money and some clothes were missing after the attack, Onyango said.

It was unclear whether Kato’s killing was linked to his gay rights activism or a front-page story in a Ugandan tabloid that reignited anti-gay sentiments late last year.

The story included a list of “top 100 homosexuals” with their photos, addresses and a banner with the words “Hang Them.” Kato’s name and picture were on the list.

Arrest warrants have been issued for two suspects: a taxi driver found near Kato’s house and an ex-convict who was staying with Kato before the killing, Onyango said.

CNN’s David McKenzie contributed to this report.


Related: Human Rights

upon the intolerant and ignorant
it must be impressed upon
that we who know better
will not let this go on!!!!

Karen Lyons Kalmenson