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The wake from Sec. of State Hillary Clinton's unprecedented gay rights speech late last year continues to ripple across the world. See how differently groups in Sierra Leone and the Philippines have responded to the historic United Nations address, after the break.
Following Clinton's call on nations to embrace the fact that gay rights are human rights or risk decreased U.S. aid, Islamic groups in Sierra Leone have started what they promise will be biweekly anti-LGBT demonstrations.
Reports the Africa Review:
Close to 1,000 protesters thronged the streets at the east end of Freetown attracting scores of onlookers on the process who cheered them on.
The post Friday prayer demonstration was organised by the Inveterate International Islamic Revitalists, who said they were worried that persistent pronouncements from major powers could influence the country`s politicians to recognise “alien” and “immoral” practices in the country.
The organisers say the protests will be a bi-weekly affair.
Sheikh Marrah, one of the leaders of the protesters, referred to a recent statement by US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton who said US would use aide to encourage the respect of the rights of gays and lesbians.
A contrasting response has erupted across the Philippines where LGBT activists have weaponized Clinton's landmark address into ammo in the fight for equality. Gay groups in the country have called on President Aquino to accept Clinton's challenge and push for LGBT rights.
Reports Tempo:
The Philippine LGBT Hate Crime Watch (PLHCW), an alliance of organizations monitoring violence and discrimination against LGBTs, has formally called on government to address such violation of LGBT rights. “LGBTs in the Philippines are still on the receiving end of stigma, hatred, violence, exclusion, homophobia, transphobia and discrimination."
(Source: Towleroad; Tempo)
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