US President Barack Obama.
As a
country and a people, the United States has consistently stood for the
protection of fundamental freedoms and universal human rights. We
believe that people everywhere should be treated equally, with dignity
and respect, and that they should have the opportunity to reach their
fullest potential, no matter who they are or whom they love.
That
is why I am so deeply disappointed that Uganda will shortly enact
legislation that would criminalize homosexuality. The Anti-Homosexuality
Bill in Uganda, once law, will be more than an affront and a danger to
the gay community in Uganda. It will be a step backward for all Ugandans
and reflect poorly on Uganda’s commitment to protecting the human
rights of its people. It also will mark a serious setback for all those
around the world who share a commitment to freedom, justice and equal
rights.
As
we have conveyed to President Museveni, enacting this legislation will
complicate our valued relationship with Uganda. At a time when,
tragically, we are seeing an increase in reports of violence and
harassment targeting members of the LGBT community from Russia to
Nigeria, I salute all those in Uganda and around the world who remain
committed to respecting the human rights and fundamental human dignity
of all persons.
SOURCE
The White House
