Tuesday, October 14, 2008

"Another Boycott" - Let's see the result of this one



Peter Tatchell has called for all international aid to be stopped if it is going to a country with a homophobic agenda.
Speaking to the crowd at the San Diego Pride Human Rights Vigil, veteran human rights campaigner Mr Tatchell called for an end to aid for, "viciously homophobic countries like Jamaica, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Uganda, Iraq and Nigeria."
"Tyrannies should not be rewarded: No US aid for anti-gay regimes," Mr. Tatchell said.

In Jamaica, a recent survey found anti-gay statements made by the Prime Minister Bruce Golding, had boosted his popularity.
70% of the country do not believe in equal rights for the LGBT community.
After Hurricane Ivan devastated the Caribbean Island of Jamaica in 2005, the year before Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, the US donated $18 million in aid to help Jamaica recover.

This decision came only months ago after a Canadian Human Rights group call for a tourism boycott of the island, however the Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, all-sexuals and gays (JFLAG) in a release said it shared the frustration at the "slow progress towards transforming the social climate that makes it difficult for gays and lesbians in Jamaica to lead lives free from homophobic violence.
"Yet, because of the possible repercussions of increased homophobic violence against our already besieged community, we feel that a tourist boycott is not the most appropriate response at this time.
"In our battle to win hearts and minds, we do not wish to be perceived as taking food off the plate of those who are already impoverished.
"In fact, members of our own community could be disproportionately affected by a worsened economic situation brought about by a tourist ban.
"The concern and support of the international community has been critical in focusing attention to our situation.
"We are open to further engaging with you in pursuing constructive interventions that both make our case for human rights protection and minimise risk to our physical and material well being."

OUTWEEKLY will be investigating this current happining and keeping you up to date..

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