The 15th AWID International Forum brought together feminists from around the world, creating a space for solidarity, inspiration, and collective action. I am deeply grateful to everyone who attended our session, “Resisting the Tide: Countering Anti-Gender Movements and Upholding Transgender and Gender-Diverse Rights in Uganda.”
This session was more than a discussion—it was a call to action, a tribute to resilience, and a space for shared learning. Together, we explored how Uganda’s transgender and gender-diverse community is standing strong in the face of systemic oppression and strategized on how we can unite globally to resist anti-gender movements.
REFLECTIONS FROM THE SESSION
Our discussion centered on the challenges posed by Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, the resilience of the transgender and gender-diverse community, and pathways to solidarity. Here’s a snapshot of what we covered:
- THE HISTORY OF ANTI-GENDER LEGISLATION IN UGANDA
The remarkable Adebayo Chris Katiiti shared their reflections on the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2014, offering insights into how this landmark legislation impacted Uganda’s transgender and gender-diverse community. Their story of navigating fear, discrimination, and violence under the Act was a reminder of both the immense challenges and the unwavering courage of the community.
- THE CURRENT REALITY AMID THE ANTI -HOMOSEXUALITY ACT 2023
I had the privilege of discussing the current realities under the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, which has amplified discrimination, violence, and exclusion for Uganda’s transgender and gender-diverse community. Despite the hostile environment, the community has shown remarkable resilience, finding innovative ways to organize, advocate, and survive these challenging times.
- THE UGANDA NATIONAL TRANS FORUM MANIFESTO
Sylvester Kazibwe presented the Uganda National Trans Forum Manifesto, a powerful and unifying strategy for collective action. This manifesto serves as a roadmap for change, prioritizing strengthening Uganda’s trans and gender-diverse movement, advocating for evidence-based policies, and fostering safe spaces for resilience and growth.
- GLOBAL SOLIDARITY AND COLLECTIVE ACTION
The session concluded with a vibrant discussion on how allies worldwide can support Uganda’s transgender and gender-diverse communities. We shared best practices, identified strategies for amplifying trans and gender-diverse voices, and explored the importance of international collaboration in resisting anti-gender movements.
The Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 is not just a Ugandan issue. It reflects a global rise in anti-gender movements fueled by political opportunism, cultural biases, and religious extremism. For transgender and gender-diverse individuals in Uganda, it has led to systemic oppression, restricted access to essential services, and deteriorating mental health. Yet, this session highlighted something far more powerful: the community’s resilience, determination, and hope. It reminded us that collective action, both locally and globally, can turn the tide against oppression.
MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER
This session was just the beginning. As we reflect on the powerful stories and strategies shared, let’s commit to:
- Share the untold stories of transgender and gender-diverse communities, challenging harmful narratives and misinformation.
- Strengthen partnerships between local activists and global allies to create a united front against anti-gender movements.
- Advocate for repealing oppressive laws and implementing policies that protect and uphold human rights for all.
Your engagement during this session has shown that solidarity knows no borders. Together, we can resist the tide of oppression and build a future where equality, dignity, and justice are not aspirations but realities.
THANK YOU FOR RISING WITH US
Thank you for your energy, insights, and solidarity with everyone who participated. This session was a tribute to the power of collective action, and I am inspired by the commitment and passion of everyone who joined us.
Let’s keep the momentum going. The fight for justice is far from over, but together, we are unstoppable.
💜 In solidarity,
Nana Millers
