During Pride Month, many countries around the world have been celebrating progress, equality and human rights gains for LGBT people. But in Sri Lanka, we are fighting to simply survive.
Since 1886, LGBT people in Sri Lanka have suffered tremendous bigotry and oppression. The criminalization of same-sex relationships along with cultural and social stigmas means that LGBT Sri Lankans face all forms of discrimination, marginalization and violence. Many LGBT Sri Lankans lack basic health care and often have low self-esteem and internalized homophobia.
A law that is over 100 years old, which directly hinders equal rights for all, must be revoked. Consensual sex between adults should not be policed by the State nor should it be grounds for criminal punishment.
It’s time to urge the Sri Lankan government to decriminalize same-sex relationships. Sign this petition to support LGBT Sri Lankans’ basic human rights—something we all deserve.
Rosanna Flamer-Caldera is the executive director of AJWS grantee EQUAL GROUND in Sri Lanka.
