On Sept. 12, Black LGBTQ+ lawmakersled by Maryland state Del. Gabriel Acevero and D.C. Councilmember Zachary Parker, and alongside the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) and other advocacy groupsprotested outside the Nigerian embassy in D.C. in response to the recent multiple arrests that recently took place at a same-sex wedding in Nigeria.
The numbers of arrested persons have varied from 60 to more than 100. A press release connected with this protest (citing a CNN article) put the number at more than 200.
"Black LGBTQ+ people are not a threat to Nigeria's national security or identity. Instead of focusing the resources of the state on ending violence and police brutality, it is instead being used to persecute queer Nigerians," said Acevero. "The most recent string of arrests targeting our community goes against what it means to be a free and democratic society and we call for the immediate release of those detained unjustly.
"Our LGBTQ+ siblings in Nigeria echo the truth that we have always existed and will continue to exist in all corners of the world. The attempt to erase or suppress these identities through unjust measures is futile. We refuse to be silenced and will persistently advocate for the rights and dignity of Black LGBTQ+/SGL individuals everywhere."
NBJC Executive Director Dr. David J. Johns, "As an organization dedicated to advancing the rights and well-being of Black LGBTQ+/same-gender loving (LGBTQ+/SGL) individuals, we stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria and across the African Diaspora. We firmly denounce this act of persecution and call on the Nigerian authorities to immediately release all those who have been unjustly detained.
"We implore international leaders, including President Biden, the U.S. State Department, global organizations, and other nations, to unite to denounce this incident and take concrete steps to support the LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria - including providing legal, financial, and safe housing support."
Andrew Davis