Harold Washington College ( HWC ) hosted writer/civil-rights activist Terry Angel Mason April 25.
HWC Pride and Inspired Creative Expression ( ICE ) performing arts club organized the author reading.
"The purpose of this event is to shine a spotlight on the horrific atrocities committed against LGBT people not only in America, but also in Africa," said Asim Allakim, master of ceremonies and president of ICE.
Allakim and Mason both spoke of anti-gay fervor in Africa, citing the Uganda "kill the gays" bill, a legislative proposal that would make same-sex relations punishable by death. There's is also the Malawi gay couple sentenced to 14 years in prison for having homosexual sex.
"No matter [ the ] race, age, gender, sexual orientation or ethnic background, we are all connected," said Mason. "When Uganda proposes killing every same-gender-loving person, it will affect us here in ways we never imagined."
Mason spoke of intersecting oppressions and the similarities between anti-oppression movements, including those involving African-American, women's and LGBT rights, saying they cannot be separated.
"The only way injustice and discrimination and homophobia can play out here and in Africa is if we idly sit by and do nothing," said Mason. "We must boldly step up to the plate and take aggressive action."
He also touted equal protection and love for all people regardless of identity.
"The power of love will always prevail over injustice," said Mason.
Allakim recognized unsung LGBT heroes, including Bayard Rustin, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s top advisor and organizer of the 1963 March on Washington. He cited homophobia with keeping important historical figures in the closet and in the shadows. He urged audience members to recognize and fight against injustice wherever they see it.
"If we do not select political leaders who will step in the gap, we will definitely fail. What happens an ocean away, can easily happen here," said Allakim. "Vote. Exercise the rights we fought so hard for."
Charles Washington read Mason's poem, "Uganda My Heart Weeps For You," chronicling the injustices perpetuated against Uganda by other nations as well as the injustices happening within the country.
The event also featured performances from the ICE choir, who sang gospel selections "All You Need Is Christ" and "Make a Wave."
