Federal judge rules LGBT Ugandans’ case against anti-gay American may proceed
“Today’s ruling is a significant victory for human rights everywhere but most especially for LGBTI Ugandans who are seeking accountability from those orchestrating our persecution.”
Frank Mugisha, director of Sexual Minorities of Uganda (SMUG), as quoted in an Aug. 15 statement issued by the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR). The New York-based CCR filed suit on SMUG’s behalf in U.S. District Court in Massachusetts against anti-gay activist Scott Lively, alleging that “Lively’s actions over the past decade, in collaboration with key Ugandan government officials and religious leaders, are responsible for depriving LGBTI Ugandans of their fundamental human rights based solely on their identity, which is the definition of persecution under international law and is deemed a crime against humanity.” Today’s ruling by Judge Michael Posner denies Lively’s request that the case be dismissed, allowing it to move forward. (Center for Constitutional Rights)
[Photo of Frank Mugisha, Washington, D.C, November 2011, by Julian Vankim/Metro Weekly]
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