On Feb. 28, Ghana's parliament unanimously passed a controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill that has been condemned globally.
The so-called Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Act, which was introduced in the parliament in 2021, not only criminalizes LGBTQ+ relationships but also those who support LGBTQ+ rights, according to CNN.
The United Nations human rights chief, Volker Turk, called the passing of the bill "profoundly disturbing" and urged the president not to sign it into law. In addition, UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima warned that if the bill did become a law it would "affect everyone" and hamper the country's fight against HIV/AIDS.
In a statement that Windy City Times received, National Black Justice Coalition CEO Dr. David J. Johns said, in part, "We condemn the recent advancement of a discriminatory bill by the Ghanaian Parliament proposing custodial sentences of up to five years for advocates promoting LGBTQ+ rights. This legislation represents a direct assault on the human rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ Ghanaians, as well as allies who dare to support or advocate for our freedoms and dignity.
"We urge President Nana Akufo-Addo to reject this discriminatory bill and instead focus on enacting laws and policies that promote equality, tolerance, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. We urge the United States government and the United Nations to remain in solidarity against all forms of discrimination and persecution and work towards building a society where everyone can live freely and authentically, without fear of reprisal or persecution."
Andrew Davis