Acceptance
Throughout Sub Saharan Africa and especially near Uganda, there is a present amount of acceptance towards homosexuality and the LGBT community in addition to those using support groups or organizations to improve acceptance.
Other African countries, such as Somalia, and countries outside of Africa have both created positive support groups, sites, and organizations to cope with African homophobia. There are also countries using film and literature to promote acceptance and educate people on the LGBT community, and most importantly, have implemented positive and inclusive policies regarding homosexuality.
Somalia, a country with cruel policies and punishments, has seen an increase in support for the LGBT community. Not only have support groups and organizations been helpful for LGBT Somalis, but people who struggle with homophobia who want to be educated.
One website, Somali Gay Community, was monumental in creating a unique and safe space for LGBT Africans to talk about their struggles. This website also acts as a support group and messaging system for LGBT Somalis.
Tanzania is another example of LGBT+ acceptance in Africa. There are activists and LGBT members of different communities in Tanzania who are writing and filming their stories.
Tanzanian independent films now include homosexual relationships and topics. These new boundaries are still being tested, but they make homosexuality and the LGBT community understandable and less threatening. These films and videos are also connected to traditional Tanzanian topics and scenarios. This connection allows people to develop acceptance and improve their knowledge of homosexuality.
The exposure of the LGBT community through the African medical fields has educated others on the proper care of gay men, as well as increased the acceptance of homosexuality.
Treating and “caring” for gay men in African medical centers was originally a cruel experience designed for them to suffer. For example, forced examinations for males to investigate homosexual behavior are common, as homosexuality can lead to up to a 30 year sentence in prison. While they claim to be treated as routine, these exams intend physically harm and are forced.
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However, the purpose of these exams eventually transitioned into an educational experience and were soon promoting acceptance in the medical field and society.
Another example of education through the medical field is the treatment of AIDS. African healthcare providers get little training on how to care for homosexual men and what their needs are. After an increase of gay, male patients, healthcare providers have increased the training needs of these patients.
These health issues have also led to acceptance of homosexuality, and cases of improved medical treatment has led to the education, sensitization, and acceptance of the LGBT community, which is an approach Uganda could implement as well.
