We begin a series of four pieces today addressing LGBTI nomenclature, issues, and politics in Africa. The four authors whose short pieces we feature provide much food for thought, on the mythological constructions of history, religion, and culture, the abuse of power by national and international actors, and the pros and cons of communal identities and notions of “rights.” We look forward to our readers’ comments on this important series.
Today:
by Ebenezer Obadare, “Ebenezer Obadare On Gay Rights, Same-Sex Marriage”
In this article published by Naij.com, columnist Ebenezer Obadare breaks down the debate on gay rights by first asking, “Should a society prevent an individual or a group of individuals from an act when there is no threat- real or apparent- to it, i.e. the society, from the pursuit of such an activity?” While suggesting that the well-known arguments against same-sex relationships are beginning to “wear-out”, Obadare stresses the need to re-frame the issue across Africa. Moreover, Obadare argues that considering there is not a cogent argument against homosexuality, “it is a debate we ought to embrace using the tools of logic.”
Forthcoming:
by Lilly Phiri ,”Reflections on Ebenezer Obadare’s Insights on Gay Rights”
by Michael Bosia, “Mike Bosia Comments on Lilly Phiri’s Article”
by Cilas Kemedjio, “Cilas Kemedjio on Human Rights”
We, as African Anglicans, Episcopalians from the United States, and members of other African churches, met in consultation in Africa for the third time in four years, this time in the shadow of Elmina Castle, the stronghold used by European slave traders on the Cape Coast of Ghana. Once again, we studied the Bible together, prayed, worshipped, and listened to the stories of individual Christians who have struggled to form their consciences and deepen their faith in churches that frequently deny the very humanity of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people.
Follow this statement: http://ujamaa.ukzn.ac.za/RESOURCES_OF_UJAMAA/Sexualityconsultation.aspx