Tomorrow: NYC Vigil To Remember David Kato
On January 26, 2011, David Kato, a prominent LGBT human rights defender in Uganda, was murdered in his home. His violent death comes in the wake of threats, violence and intimidation that he himself and other LGBT individuals and their supporters have faced. In the most recent incident of incitement to homophobic violence, the faces, names and addresses of “alleged homosexuals” were published under the headline “Hang Them” by a local tabloid. On 3 January 2011, Kato, whose face was on the tabloid’s cover, and two other plaintiffs won a lawsuit against the publication. The High Court of Uganda found that their privacy had been violated, ordering compensation and an injunction again future similar publication. In recent days, in addition to Kato, the two other plaintiffs in the Rolling Stone case have also been subjected to violence, raising concern that they have been targeted because of this case and remain in grave danger. More Information
On Thursday, February 3rd, a coalition of over 38 organizations will hold a peaceful vigil near the Ugandan Mission to the United Nations in New York City to remember the life of David Kato, Ugandan LGBT human rights defender, murdered on January 26 in his home. The vigil will honor his struggle for human rights for all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Join us in mourning David and showing the Ugandan government that there must be no more violence and discrimination against LGBT Ugandans.
What: Candlelight vigil and silent procession
When: February 3, 2011, 4:00 pm at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza; 5:00 pm at Uganda House
Where: Dag Hammarskjold Plaza at the corner of 2nd Avenue and 47th Street; Uganda House at 336 East 45th Street between 1st and 2nd Avenues
Who: The keynote speech will be delivered by Val Kalende, Board Chair of Freedom and Roam Uganda, an LGBT organization in Uganda.
Additional speakers include:
– Christine Quinn, New York City Council Speaker
– Cary Alan Johnson (International Gay & Lesbian Human Rights Commission)
– Reverend Kapya Kaoma (Public Research Associates)
– Amanda Lugg (African Services Committee)
– Kagendo Murungi (Wapinduzi Productions)
– Pastor Joseph Tolton (Global Justice Initiative)
– Dr. Cheikh Traore
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