Undeniably the UK has come a long way in regards to the inclusion and empowerment of BAME LGBTQ+ people.
In 2017, the UK government released a Race Disparity Audit which revealed that "BAME people are more likely to experience poorer outcomes than white people in a range of areas".
The audit also found that BAME LGBTQ+ people face "double discrimination" due to both their race and sexual orientation/gender identity.
Despite all efforts, people from Africa find it difficult to access the same level of representation, protection, and empowerment. Many of them are usually fleeing their countries for fear of being persecuted for their sexual orientation or gender identity.
For instance, in Uganda, homosexuality is punishable by life imprisonment. In Nigeria, same-sex relationships are punishable by up to 14 years in prison.
There are many reasons why African LGBTQ+ people need representation in the UK. First and foremost, they need a voice. They need to be seen and they also need to feel safe.
Furthermore, they need to know that there are people who see them, understand them, and will fight for their rights.
African LGBTQ+ people in the UK have started to form their own communities and networks in order to support each other. However, they need more than just a supportive community; they need institutional representation.
This is where communities like this one - Africa Equality Foundation was created.
Africa Equality Foundation is a registered charity in the UK that works exclusively with African LGBTQ+ asylum seekers and refugees.
We provide a range of services such as support, advice, and guidance for those who need it. We also offer training on equality and human rights, which is vital for empowering African LGBTQ+ asylum seekers and refugees in the UK.
There are very few role models or public figures that African LGBTQ+ people can look up to.
When we first meet with someone in need of our services, we always ask them what their hopes and dreams are.
More often than not, they tell us that they just want to be able to live a normal life.
African LGBTQ+ people in the UK should not have to fight for their right to simply exist.
They should not have to worry about whether or not they will be accepted by their family, friends or colleagues.
We have created an environment that is inclusive and empowering, and we will continue to fight for the rights of African LGBTQ+ asylum seekers and refugees in the UK.
If you would like to learn more about our work or be a part of it, feel free to get in touch with us. We would love to hear from you!
Thank you for reading this blog. We hope it has inspired you to think about the African LGBTQ+ community in the UK and why representation matters.
Please share this blog post if you found it thought-provoking or informative. Thank you!
One Love.