'You Don't Have To Swing To Beat Up Gays' (Gleaner) ..... HRW LGBT Rights Director says

Thanks to Human Rights Watch's LGBT Rights Director for a timely reminder of the two reports they had done, I am intimately knowledgeable of the first "Hated to Death" having participated in the interviews and also submitting my own matter from 1996 where I was arrested for buggery but the collection in some parts is anecdotal as well with hardly any strong evidence but for the words of the interviewed at the time.

I am an advocate for photographic and video evidence which often are missing from such dossiers when they are compiled.

Firstly here is the article from the Gleaner:

President Obama's visit to Jamaica presented a good opportunity for him to discuss Jamaica's human rights record, including the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people, during bilateral talks with the prime minister.

When gay-rights activists disrupted a speech by Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller in New York on March 26, she retorted: "Nobody ever hears the Government of Jamaica beating up gays. Not one."

Sadly, this is only partially true.

Human Rights Watch has written two reports on violence against LGBT Jamaicans in the last 10 years.

The first, from 2004, Hated to Death, showed that abuse by police was rife and "a fact of life" for many LGBT Jamaicans in all communities where Human Rights Watch conducted research. At the time, and despite strong evidence to the contrary, police were reluctant to acknowledge homophobic hate crimes, which they characterised as "crimes of passion". The senior superintendent at the Kingston police station told Human Rights Watch: "We never have any cases of gay men being beaten up."

Ten years later, the second report, Not Safe At Home, showed that the Jamaican Government had taken some steps to address this intolerable situation.

In 2011, the Jamaican Constabulary Force introduced a Policy on Diversity, developed in consultation with the Jamaican advocacy group J-FLAG. The policy is designed to ensure that vulnerable groups, including LGBT people, can safely file police reports. The Ministry of National Security has also developed tools to monitor instances of crime, including provisions for disaggregated data on violence against LGBT people.

These are good initiatives, but they have not worked well in practice.

Here is the evidence: More than half of the 71 LGBT people interviewed for the 2014 report had experienced some form of violence based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Nineteen reported the crimes to the police, who took formal statements in only eight cases. Victims were aware of arrests by police in only four of the 56 cases of violence documented by Human Rights Watch. The Government does not need to "beat up gays" to fail them.

While the Jamaican Government has shown a willingness to acknowledge the violence, more can, and should, be done.

The prime minister and other leaders should consistently condemn violence and discrimination. Police should undertake rigorous investigations into all allegations of anti-LGBT hate crimes, improve monitoring of the Policy on Diversity, and strengthen police training on LGBT rights. Jamaica's 1864 buggery law gives social sanction to hostility and discrimination and should be repealed.

Justice Minister Mark Golding has acknowledged the need for targeted anti-discrimination legislation to address violations against certain groups in society. Such legislation, inclusive of LGBT people, would be a clear signal that discrimination has no place in Jamaica. Parliament should strike down all discriminatory laws and replace them with laws that protect Jamaicans from discrimination on the grounds of gender identity and sexual orientation.

Yesterday, President Obama co-chaired a meeting of CARICOM heads of government in Jamaica, ahead of the Summit of the Americas in Panama. He will hold bilateral discussions on matters of mutual interest with Prime Minister Simpson Miller. The spokesperson for the National Security Council, Ned Price, has reportedly said: "We are committed to advancing human rights for all, including LGBT individuals. Indeed, we routinely raise issues of anti-LGBT discrimination and violence with foreign counterparts, including the Jamaican Government."

While the White House has declined to say whether Obama will talk about the rights of LGBT people on this visit, this will be a good opportunity to do so. Under Portia Simpson Miller's watch, this should be an entirely uncontroversial topic and one that does not need to be tiptoed around.

• Graeme Reid is the LGBT rights director at Human Rights Watch

ENDS

Given the political climate the culture here in Jamaica and as was discussed yesterday on Nationwide radio politicians run to the hills or use the delay tactic claiming the nation is not ready as yet which in part maybe true. 

Politicians in private know what needs to be done but political fortunes must be protected and the wall of disbelief (crimes of passion mantra homophobes hold on to) (Youtube) of homophobic claims is a challenge as hinted to above.

Then there is the matter of shifting for example the press release below from the PNP days after the historic statement by Mrs Simpson Miller, the party was worried they were being viewed as about to free the buggery law and the backlash that might not let them win the election then.

While the recommendations from HRW sound plausible and aspirational we must take into account the realities hence but the HRW position here sounds far more realistic than some other overseas commentary and interventions as of late for example GLAAD's urging of Obama to address the issues when they said homosexuality is illegal when in fact it is buggery that is not orientation.

Knee jerk reactions by other 'activists' to an obvious spike in homo-negative incidents is not the way to go about it, careful thought has to be done and strategizing but with recent outcomes in the lobby as well as outside of it leaves me wondering and indeed concerned on many fronts.

A recent report alongside a very short 30 second video clip suggesting the person therein was stoned because he was gay unverified, and no credible information included has only sought to ruffle feathers and the disbelief quotient rises, see: Alleged Gay Youth Stoned to Death in Jamaica (VIDEO) it has since emerged the beating was a mobbing of an alleged thief and not a homophobic matter. 

Crisis reporting/communication requires proper investigation, care, patience and clarity to enhance credibility for the long term goal of not only changing laws but hearts and minds.

check out my latest podcast:

also see: (first two are must reads)

Health Minister Says Boldness Needed to Change Buggery Laws for HIV Prevention Work to be Effective with at Risk Groups 

and 

Foreign Affairs Minister says Govt should be cautious on gay rights issues in Jamaica 

‘Idiot plan that!’ - Many Jamaicans against Buggery Law review ............... 2011

Not to mention the feelings of the oppressed becoming the oppressor: Gay Advocates aren't Bullies (Gleaner Letter) and Pro-Gay Bully Ignoring Grave Health Impact (Gleaner) and Perception of Jamaican LGBTQ lobby bullying continues

Longtimer "BeBe" Murdered in Western Jamaica

Homophobic Killing or What 2011

NO GAY RAGE - Homosexuals Are Not Targeted For Violent Crime, Say Experts

Murder, Homelessness and fallouts ..................................

Justice Minister reiterates his personal position on the Buggery Law, Anal Intercourse, Consent & Privacy

Promised (I mean suggested) Conscience vote on Buggery law not a priority right now (yet again) says PM

So Dean Moriah's murder was NOT a homophobic killing ....... ethical issues in advocacy arise yet again

Foreign Affairs Minister says Govt should be cautious on gay rights issues in Jamaica

Promised Conscience Vote on Buggery in Jamaica was a fluke

PNP's Damion Crawford on Homosexuality's legality .

Other reads:

Jamaican Opposition Leader says he would allow homosexuals in his cabinet

Non Governmental Organization Consultant says JLP suggested Referendum on Buggery is not a good idea

Opposition Leader sides with antigay groups on Referendum on The Buggery Law

PNP’s Bobby Pickersgill differs on Conscience Vote route to decide on Buggery Law

PNP's Damion Crawford says it's highly unlikely buggery review will happen ........ it's not important now

The PNP's first 100 days ............. buggery review looks far away

PNP Wins ................Hope for LGBT People ??

CVM TV @ Sunrise on the Buggery review & JFLAG's 100 days hope for meeting with PM

On Buggery and gays in cabinets with politics ............ some responses .

Jamaican LGBT Advocacy credibility takes another blow thanks to UK based Gay Star News

Integrity of Jamaican LGBT Advocate Questioned, named as student loan delinquent

New Imperialists in Pink

Murder Music Campaign needs local leadership and Gov’t Hush Hush On Gay Pressure …As Promoters Forced To Pull Queen Ifrica From Canada Show

Rev Al Miller’s late response to Dwayne Jones’ Murder & Respect heterosexuals demand

Stand Firm Against Gay Activists, Madam PM 2015 from veteran anti gay Christian lawyer Shirley Richards
Sizzla bats for Queen Ifrica as expected

Queen Ifrica's "Freedom of Speech" & advocacy found wanting

'I SPOKE FOR WHAT I BELIEVED IN' - Queen Ifrica defends Grand Gala performance after JFLAG backlash

Peace and tolerance

H

Lesbophobic Rant on RJR’s Afternoon Flagship Program by Broadcasters

Easter Monday around 4pm we were subject to the most ignorance laden lesbophobic stigmatization and homo-negative rants I have heard in a long time on radio and to think this happened on one of Jamaica’s longest running radio stations that has set the standard for broadcasting in terms of quality. I was taken aback by it, this one almost went unchecked for the heightened fever and anticipation of President Obama’s visit to Jamaica that has overshadowed near everything else, maybe the hosts of the show thought such an exercise would have gone unnoticed; if anyone was having traditional bun and cheese for the season and are right thinking they might have felt nauseous after hearing the poor broadcast quality from a supposedly reputable station.

The infraction was platformed on a pretentious search for feedback on a news story carried on social media of a female student identified as a lesbian in the United States who was barred from wearing a tuxedo to a prom when what really it turned out to be was an avenue to push as mentioned before homo-negative rubbish on the strength of the heckling exercise of the Prime Minister in New York by some gay rights activists in March and the expectation that talks may occur now that President is here on law changes, Jamaica’s homophobia and the perception of bullying by LGBT advocacy local and overseas.

Markland ‘Action’ Edwards and co-host Mark Marshall set the tone for the call back section and of the first callers went straight to the old stupid beliefs of a Keep it to yourself mentality or stay in the closet rebuke as is customary; she said ‘if they are two gays they must go in their dress and carry their man things to dem yard.” In other words the hetero-normative modes of dress must remain and no accommodation must be given to other forms of gender or sexual orientation (stereotypical sometimes) in the present rapidly changing environment challenging long held traditions.

Other phone in comments for example that were allowed to reinforce the homo-negative beliefs were:

“Not In my Cabinet .... no woman inna tuxedo”

“She can go wear her tuxedo somewhere else.”

“if she register at the school as a man she should wear her tux.”

“The school must stand up for what they stand for; if you is a girl you is just a girl; you must dress like a girl; no girl must dress inna tuxedo like a man, they must stay aside with it.” That comment again reinforces the stay in the closet mentality and that affirmation via public display of dress or openness is unaccepted, in other words the Keep it to yourself mentality. Sadly the stereotyping of LGBT life by LGBT entertainment has aided such negative perceptions to cement themselves.

“Keep your dirty laundry in your household”

RJR Markland Edwards on Female in Tux Story in US Feedbaack 06.04.15 

There was on sensible caller (with an American accent) brought home the point of freedom of choice @ around 15:25 in the audio posted above.

Mark Marshall was the more offensive of the hosts where he clearly displayed his ignorance suggesting that if he had to give a ride to a man who was known to be gay and members of the public were also aware then he would not engage that man publicly suggesting some predatory intent by homosexuals when in close proximity of someone else. I wonder if the exercise was a way to raise listenership as well as the stiff competition from others northwards on the radio dial is strong and the previous host of the show in question just departed the station so this show is pretty much new. Such types of phobic and stigmatizing rants and broadcasts are often used both in print and electronic media and dancehall music to revive or increase market share and sales capitalizing on the national perception of male homosexuality in particular.

Marshall in response to a caller in his disgusting display of ignorance said “when some girls want to exhibit a certain lifestyle they don’t wear dresses anymore,” clearly the man is not up on his understanding of sexual orientation and using ‘lifestyle’ to imply change is possible to convert persons to hetero-normal socialization. The caller continued and identified himself as a club owner and he knows how lesbians run yet he is offended at a lesbian overseas wearing to tux to an event but has no trouble while turning his head away accepting the patronage of the same group he is upset with.

It was after the aforementioned sensible caller that Marshall pretentiously again went on his poor broadcasting style as if to suggest he has no problem with homosexuals then the preverbal but. He also issued veiled threats that no group or activists can remove him and that he is willing to leave the station if necessary.

Sadly this is what our broadcasting standards have fallen to, I intend to send a copy of this entry to the station manager Francois St Juste to see if he will or can act on this; a warning perhaps and it is left up to us to monitor this duo as clearly they have some agenda as evidenced in this incident. The repeated reference to bullying by lobbyists for example was somehow being made out to be justification for no change of laws that criminalize acts associated with male homosexuals; hence Jamaicans must resist any talk of tolerance or homosexuality came through loud and clear to me in the 25 minute plus segment of the show.

This isolated incident though in earshot of thousands of listeners (mostly older folks) is a clear indication to activists that we have a long way to go in changing hearts and minds and not just amending or repealing archaic laws buggery legislation.

Peace and tolerance

H

Caribbean tourism must reflect changing demands ....... pink $$$ anyone?

After years of idling in the doldrums, visitor arrivals to some parts of the region are increasing rapidly, travellers are spending more, and the yield for hoteliers is increasing. Moreover, as demand soars in Cuba, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and some smaller Caribbean destinations like Aruba, it is getting much harder for visitors to find a quality hotel room at short notice. Recent figures by the tourism ministry reflect good increases but those only reflect a lower section of the US market in particular while the ever increasing and robust if not bold LGBT market is yet to be tapped into.

Gay marriage rights are almost covering the 50+ states in the US, The UK has already moved in that direction and the EU is quite clear as to such rights and state benefits. Correspondingly local travel interests in those jurisdictions have adjusted rapidly to meet their demands and while LGBTQ family goes mainstream they have more disposable income and on the face of it seeking relaxative environments outside their countries, honeymoons anyone?

The Business of Tourism - Caribbean tourism must reflect changing demands

Cuba apart, which is a special case following the virtual freeing of US travel restrictions late last year, this rapid increase in demand for a Caribbean vacation largely reflects the fact that disposable income in the main feeder markets in North America and parts of Europe is increasing as economic recovery occurs and travellers begin to feel more financially secure. It is also the case that some Caribbean destinations such as Jamaica have again become hot in the eyes of those who establish on social media and in print the image of an aspirational destination.

see this previous post:

Cuba Makes Progress in Sex Reassignment Surgery ... expects communist party to accept LGBT rights 2012

Cuban(s) enjoys new benefit of free sex-change operation 2011

Mariela Castro: “U.S government is concerned about LGBT movement in Cuba” 2012

Cuba Looking to Become Gay Travel Hotspot 2013

Cuba's already forward thinking treatment of LGBT matters especially transgenderism the recent changes of US foreign policy and courting by the federal government when the trappings are finally gone the flood gates will open. Medical tourism especially may grow there given the above posts hints to free reassignment surgery and their overall state healthcare.

But for the most successful Caribbean markets, there are also other factors at work.

The recent surge in visitor demand and indications that even the lower-cost coming summer season is building well reflect better marketing, product improvements, and new airlift that has resulted in improved access, for instance, from the countries of Latin America and from Scandinavia. It also in part, reflects the ability of lower-cost air carriers to pass on to the growing numbers of visitors using their services, the savings they are making as the price of aviation fuel falls.

What this means is that the industry in many Caribbean tourism destinations is not only making a significant contribution to national economic recovery, but again demonstrating its often-ignored significance to the wider Caribbean economy.

At its most basic, this is good news, but it also raises interesting questions as to where the region's product is headed now that sustainable growth again seems possible.

For some, renewed demand is simply about a return to business as usual, the end to heavy discounting of room rates, and the Caribbean again taking its 'rightful place' as the world's paramount warm-water destination.

Competitive marketplace

However, for those who are more thoughtful, it is about recognising that during the years of stagnation, the global marketplace for tourism has changed, becoming intensely competitive, and that the future will require adapting the product and the tourism offering so that present success is sustainable.

For those willing to look over the horizon, the issue now is about reorienting and developing the Caribbean tourism offering to reflect changing international demand for the authentic, quality service and cuisine; and even when the price is high, value for money. It reflects, too, an understanding that a significant part of the higher spending end of the market is looking for much more than just a luxury hotel and a beach in the tropics.

This will mean a sea change in the way that some in the industry and government in the region think. It is about more than the normal default position of rebranding. It requires a new approach involving both the industry and government reconceptualising tourism, hotels and the tourism product in ways that make it globally competitive and ensures that a visitor feels that the region and a destination is special and wants to return.

This will not be easy as it requires properties, restaurants, attractions, and if they are able to become better corporate citizens, the internationally branded chain hotels, to think in a vernacular way and come together to renew and develop the product in a manner that promotes the uniqueness of the Caribbean nations in which they are located.

The old practice of the LGBT market having to be engaged most discreetly as they do come but under most private arrangements often in ultra private villas for security reasons. Outward displays of affection is a no no even if you're a tourist (local culture may often overlook certain things) 

Tolerant industry

"Our hotels have always welcomed. We don't necessarily place ads advertising that we accept the LGBT, but we would never turn back persons because of their sexual preferences," said a Negril hotelier, who added that there is really no difference from how the LGBT market was treated by the average hotel 20 years ago.

"The industry has always been more tolerant than the rest of the society," said the hotelier, adding that there are many gays working in the tourism sector, so it's no big news.

Another hotelier says Jamaica is not ready for this market, which is a big mistake. "I have tried to target them in the past, but I have given up, because it's a hard sell, particularly because of our homophobic reputation," said the hotelier.

She said if members of the LGBT community were to turn up at her property they wouldn't be turned back. She admits that the market has huge potential of pumping foreign exchange into the island's coffers.

also see:

LGBT leisure travel market set to spike .................... LGBT "friendly" resorts are here

Jamaica missing out on gay billions, says J'can scholar 2008 from the Jamaica Observer

Peace and tolerance

H

Schoolboys in custody for assault of soft spoken male student

another incident with students from the same school

Two male students from a prominent high school in St Thomas have been taken into custody, after a video surfaced that showed them assaulting another schoolboy.

The incident happened last week and was recorded and posted on several social media sites, including Facebook.

The video shows the students striking another male student with a belt, while other students watched without any rebuke or defending him.

The video caused outrage among many social media viewers, who denounced the boys as bullies and troublemakers. Sadly this is just another example of what students experienced thankfully it was captured and shared. 

There was a previous case without a video however in 2014: 

3 Schoolboys face the court for beating other male student allegedly for calling them "battybois" from sister blog Gay Jamaica Watch and Safety month in schools, bullying, oral sex and such .........

Deputy Superintendent Charmaine Shand of the St Thomas police confirmed that the incident was under investigation. She said officers have also received a statement from the boy who was assaulted.

The St Thomas police also said that they have expanded their support to the school, offering aid in conflict resolution and violence reduction.

Shand is also appealing for the individual who recorded the incident to make a statement to the police to assist with the investigation.

Therein lies my challenge as if they recorder of the video under Jamaican law does not turn up in court with the actual device to verify its authenticity then this matter may just filter away. 

We saw a police beating matter (non LGBT) where a phone was also used to capture the event yet because the operator of the device did not come forward the cops though seen clearly in the video walked free as the Director of public prosecution could not bring an action against the men.

Bullying in schools and indeed outside as this case shows us is a growing monster it seems based on the reports and especially for young soft spoken or effeminate boys in particular. 

My own experience at school in the 80s due to my body size and my then soft spoken demeanour I was teased at some points until I decided to take matters into my own hands, not all persons can or are willing to do that not because they are afraid alone but the effort maybe too painful for them to retaliate or react.

I hope that the case really goes through to trial and phone that was used is presented in court so to make the charges stick.

also click: The Lady’s Not For Bullying from the Gleaner penned by hypocritical journalist George Davis of Nationwide radio. He seeks to reinforce old beliefs of bullying by LGBT advocacy local and abroad.

also see in the meantime:
Zero Tolerance For Homophobic Bullying by Jaevion Nelson of JFLAG.

Peace and tolerance

H

So Shaggy said 'Jamaicans aren't killing gays' & He is a Lesbian ...... really!

I was not going to waste my time on this one but sadly when local artists especially are desperate for a forward or attention orchestrated interviews are one such method to to use to revive their fledgling careers it does have an impact on the all important credibility of the crisis communication component of LGBT public advocacy.

Seems as if he felt emboldened as rumours spread that Buju Banton would be released and deported to Jamaica as new guidelines on parole were supposed to come into effect. It turns out to be just hot air as technically he is not due for release till November 2018.

Yes there is a major difference between gay on gay violence or non romantic same gender liaisons gone bad with disastrous consequences and forced evictions, attacks and homophobic attacks. Shaggy obviously was playing on the public perceptions over the years of killings being that of jealousy as their causation than hatred and fear (especially of the feminine). 

also see:
Bounty Killer and his B****man comments at Shaggy’s fundraiser 2010

an example of disbelief and rejection of homophobia in 2012: Gay lobby claims not true, says Green ..... or Betty Ann Blaine on Big Gay Lie

Self described gay advocates have not helped either and have only served to erode the well needed credibility in crisis reporting where whether by mistake or deception some matters have been presented as homophobic when it fact they were not thus leading to the backlash advocacy repeatedly faces for example see my post on Gay Jamaica Watch: So Dean Moriah's murder was NOT a homophobic killing ....... ethical issues in advocacy arise yet again some rush to judgement no sooner as someone who is gay is killed without first verifying the issues surrounding the case. Not to mention the feelings of the oppressed becoming the oppressor: Gay Advocates aren't Bullies (Gleaner Letter) and Pro-Gay Bully Ignoring Grave Health Impact (Gleaner) and Perception of Jamaican LGBTQ lobby bullying continues

Dancehall artiste Shaggy says he is a lesbian. According to the artiste, who was addressing a question about homophobia in Jamaica during a recent interview with Sway on US-based radio station Shade 45, Jamaicans are not violent towards homosexuals.

The interviewer asked Shaggy if the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community was making any progress in Jamaica, and he replied: "Sweetheart, let me tell you something, you are talking to the number-one lesbian. Ain't nobody love more women than me, and I am Jamaican so I represent for all the lesbians right there. There has been a movement; I am leading the movement for lesbians," he told the interviewer.

Gay crime

The artiste also made an attempt to clear up misconceptions about Jamaica's approach to homosexuality.

"There are a lot of gays I see in Jamaica who are openly affectionate. You see, Jamaica has a stigma where people feel like we are the greatest gay bashers in the world; that is not the case. 

I live in Kingston, and there are a lot of gay people in Jamaica, and nobody is walking around killing gays. If you look at the statistics, there has not been any killing of gays in Jamaica. 

The only killings you hear is gay-on-gay crime, which is crime of passion. So don't listen to the propaganda and be misled ... have you been to Jamaica? You should visit," Shaggy said.

Sadly similar sentiments have been expressed by others such as Joan Williams of Power 106FM where 2 years ago she said to her broad listenership:

more disbelief about the veracity of homophobic attacks/killings versus gay on gay incidents

Shaggy was on Shade 45 promoting the single I Need Your Love, which already has over 21 million views on YouTube. The veteran, who was certified six times platinum in the US for his Hot Shot album, also advised other artistes to spend their money wisely.

Your chic

"What the f%$@ are you doing with a 13-bedroom house when you know half of the time you are touring? You are paying for the house, you have five maids and about six other caretakers who are eating your food, driving your car, swimming in your pool or even sleeping with your chic. You are not creating wealth, you are creating a liability," he said.

The artiste admitted that he wasted money in the past and owned over 15 cars at once. But, he highlighted that he learned from his mistakes.

Dancehall artiste Shabba Ranks faced a similar question from an interviewer in the '90s during the peak of his career.

However, his answer led to his own slow demise after he was branded as a homophobic artiste by the gay community and lost several endorsements and record sales plummeted sharply as he was signed to Epic Records then. Some radio stations also simply stopped playing his releases in protest of his comments.

The queen of dancehall Lady Saw had also hinted that persons are now afraid of gays as it were referring to the problematic homeless MSM/Transgender group in New Kingston.

LGBT advocates who are genuinely concerned about matters have their work cut out for them in overcoming the disbelief and presenting truths be they homophobic incidents properly verified or gay on gay relational matters gone bad with disastrous ends.

Some historical posts/podcasts on the subject:
Bounty Killer and his B****man comments at Shaggy’s fundraiser 2010

Inviting an unverified third party for a hook-up can be dangerous

Warning!: Fake Facebook pics and hookup dangers


Another young gay man is outed via Facebook .....

Leave the Gays - Some Music industry insiders say artistes can focus on other things

Longtimer "BeBe" Murdered in Western Jamaica

NO GAY RAGE - Homosexuals Are Not Targeted For Violent Crime, Say Experts

Murder, Homelessness and fallouts ..................................

from 2012 

GAY & BISEXUAL INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE, HOMOPHOBIC INCIDENTS & CRISIS COMMUNICATION

UPDATE March 27th - PM scolds gay-rights protesters in New York ........ challenges truthfulness of Homophobic Claims


UPDATE podcast April 2015:

Peace and tolerance

H

JASL Receives US$99,738 grant from the Embassy of Japan for HIV Prevention

also see: Health Minister Says Boldness Needed to Change Buggery Laws for HIV Prevention Work to be Effective with at Risk Groups 

Persons living with HIV are set to benefit from improved facilities for treatment, care and support, at the Jamaica AIDS Support for Life (JASL), through a US$99,738 grant from the Embassy of Japan, under its 'Grassroots Human Security Project'. The funds will facilitate an expansion in medical services and increased counselling support for persons living with HIV.

"The value of being able to increase the number of clients who receive treatment and counselling here, based on the renovations and expansion, cannot be captured in monetary terms. That more persons living with HIV will have accessible, available and affordable services, in a friendly and comfortable environment, is priceless," stated Minister of Health Dr Fenton Ferguson in his address at the contract signing and handover ceremony held at JASL on Friday.

The Kiwanis Club of Constant Spring, which will provide contribution, in terms of volunteer labour, was lauded by the minister for the selflessness of its members and continued commitment and support to JASL for the past seven years.

improvement

In expressing his thanks to Japanese ambassador, His Excellency Yasuo Takase, Dr Ferguson said, "we trust that you will be heartened by the significant improvement you will see in our health services due to your kind contribution."

"the strengthening of the multi-sectoral response will be the key to how readily we will be able to advance towards the very ambitious but inspiring UNAIDS targets of zero discrimination, zero transmission and zero AIDS related death."

This event came within 24 hours of the Japanese Embassy providing funding for six ambulances worth US$73,350 to the St John National Council.

Dr Ferguson also thanked the government of Japan for its continued support of the health sector in Jamaica.

Press release from JASL read as follows:

PRESS RELEASE
The Jamaica AIDS Support for Life receives JMD $11,000,000 to expand clinic from the Embassy of Japan in Jamaica The National Health Sector stands to benefit from the $11 Million grant received by JASL to expand its clinic. Jamaica AIDS Support for Life is the only non Government treatment site in the island and since its relocation to its new home, the organisation has seen a 419 % increase in clinic attendance without an expansion of the clinic space.. In light of this JASL was able to secure a grant to assist with the cost for the much needed expansion, with the kind assistance of The Kiwanis Club of Constant Spring.
The Embassy of Japan in Jamaica through its Grassroots and Human Security Grant Project has donated $11,000,000 to assist with the renovation and expansion of the clinic space. The Ambassador of Japan in Jamaica, His Excellency Yasuo Takase, said he would like to leave a legacy in Jamaica and JASL’s clinic expansion is one of his final projects before his diplomatic tour of duty ends.
The clinic which serves members of key populations (persons living with HIV, men who have sex with men and sex workers) will be expanded to include: counselling/ VCT (testing) room; a pharmacy dispensary to provide anti-retroviral and drugs for opportunistic infections; phlebotomist station; and an extending waiting area.
Through this expansion, JASL has estimated that the clinic will be able to serve almost 1,000 additional persons.

The Grant details were as follows:

A) Grassroots Human Security Project

Grassroots Human Security Project provides non-refundable financial assistance for development projects designed to meet the diverse needs in Jamaica. The project does not offer direct government-to-government grant assistance. However this project aims to provide flexible and timely support to development projects at the grassroots levels such as NGOs, hospitals, schools, local authorities and other non-profit organizations. The following are priority areas for the project:

Poverty Reduction

Primary Health

Education

Environment

Natural disaster response

Other global issues within the local context

Since 1995 Japan has provided a total of US$ 5 million to 80 local projects through the project. To see more details on the project, please click here for the guideline. 

Women Accused of Assaulting Teen with Bottle to be Tried in September

In May 2012 this awful matter came to public attention via several news outlets including the Star News then where it was reported that two of seven women accused of sexually assaulting a teenager with a bottle in Linstead, St Catherine, were remanded until June 11 when they appeared in the Linstead Resident Magistrate's Court back then.

Unfortunately stories such as these only seek to reinforce old deep seated feelings of predatory behaviour by LGBT persons thus further pushing the conflation of same gender sex and abuse. So homophobes and the religious right movements seek to justify their anti gay stance by saying repealing or decriminalizing such laws that have an impact on same gender intimacy will lead to more teens and children being abused.

The comments elsewhere on various media prove same as persons with homo-negative comments and reiterating that not only male homosexuals are to be killed or beaten but also lesbians too as the perception is more and more of them are luring school girls into same gender sexual activity or are paedophiles.

It was revealed that there was no legal representation for the women, who are charged with grievous sexual assault. The women were told that until there is an attorney, the matter would have to be put off.

Allegations are that the complainant was accused of stealing clothing, jewellery and money from the two accused.

private area

She was reportedly held and beaten and a bottle used to insert in her private area, which resulted in injuries.

The complainant subsequently made a report to the Linstead police and an investigation launched.

This resulted in the two accused being arrested and charged. Police are reportedly searching for the other five women.

It seems they have not been found as the only two who were held before are to go on trial for the matter, 

The two St Catherine women still unnamed accused of inserting a bottle inside a teenager's private area two years ago will stand trial in the St Catherine Circuit Court.

The matter was decided in the Spanish Town Resident Magistrate's Court on Friday. This was after Resident Magistrate Llyle Armstrong ruled that a prima facie case has been made out against the women.

They are scheduled to appear in the Michel Mass Session of the St Catherine Circuit Court in September 2015.

It is alleged that in 2013 the two accused lured the 17-year-old complainant to a house in Linstead, St Catherine. They then held her down and used a bottle to sexually assault her. The complainant had to seek medical attention.

A subsequent report was made to the Centre for Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse.

Both women were later charged with gross sexual assault.

It is indeed worrying the number of case we are told by the Ministry of Youth and Culture and CISOCA where victims are below the age of consent and the circumstances surrounding such matters are bizarre to say the least but they do not reflect a generalization of LGBT persons as wanting to get into the pants or panties of children. Something however must be done to address the persons who are paedophiles or abusers so that their actions and public disgust does not continue to block the aims of the struggle in terms of LGBT rights and recognition.

It was only earlier this month that Nationwide radio carried this: INCEST & MOLESTATION OF YOUNG BOYS ON THE RISE – HANNA

also see:
Youth Minister Lisa Hanna's conflation of same gender sex & abuse responded to part 2

Youth Ministry to develop programmes to address LGBT youth, homeless, destitute and vulnerable children yet to occur since the grand announcement

Disturbing Paedophile Case & Conflation of Same Gender Sex with Abuse

Learnt homosexual behaviour .............. backward thinking here?

The Deliberate Misuse of the “Sexual Grooming” Term by Antigay Fanatics to Promote Their Hysteria

Another St Thomas Pastor Accused of Rape ........... Where are Anti Gay Religious Groups?

Anti gay religious voices where are they? .... Pastor charged with sexual assault

Sexual Assault of a same sex nature  2013

Dr Heather Little-White Ph.D on Lesbianism among schoolgirls in Jamaica

Principal Association to address "lesbian issue" in prominent high school

Lesbians fondle 1st formers at school - Older students carry out attack in bathroom says The Star 2011

Our Children are at great risk ..

Experimental program leads to gay behaviour at school, are we to believe this?

School Is Cool - No Problems With Homosexuality

More Overreaction to the Jamaicans for Justice Sex Education Course & Media Senationalism

National Children’s Summit for Jamaica Conference Centre for August Excludes Sexuality Issues

Homosexuality in schools in St. Lucia

Want more aspirational fluff? then see: Human Rights of Most Marginalised Must Be Protected – Portia Simpson Miller at "Justice for All" conference

Caroyln Cooper on Unwelcome same gender advances 'I Don’t Want Women To Proposition Me!'

Also see the patois version HERE, ever since her support for LGBT issues was made known by the goodly professor aka the Patois Doctor and her about face on sexual orientation issues in some respects it would seem she has been approached by females identifying as same gender loving, I wonder if it's due to her balled head and her strong personality that causes the attraction to her? 

humph, let me not be factitious.

also see Dr Leachim Semaj's response: 

Sexual Situationships vs. Bona fide Love Relationships 

(The Crisis in All Shades of Grey Relationships)

and

Ageing And Lovesick? Don’t Chase Sex Fantasies

Truth is the LGBT population or some parts of it need to recognise that support from prominent persons in particular does not necessarily means they are LGBT and frankly such inappropriate advances my have us loose said support or whither away tolerance as persons may walk away feeling all LGBT persons are interested in is getting into their clothes for sex. The predatory construct or perception held by some is also what drives some homophobes as they feel justified in their anti gay position but then again Miss Cooper's image does have that stereotypical lesbian look that of a mow-hawk hairdo sadly associated with more middle class lesbian or gay men coupled with her personality as mentioned above. Yes there is a look!

Professor Carolyn Cooper

sorry girls no luck with Miss Cooper lol

Ms Cooper's previous blog entry Coming Out In Jamaica – Dead Or Alive seems to have triggered off the approaches as well, have a read of her latest entry/Gleaner piece excerpted below:

At every turn, I’m under attack. I’ve been trying so hard to emancipate myself from mental slavery. I’ve been defending gay rights in Jamaica. But it seems as if I might have to stop and start minding my own business. I can’t take on other people’s troubles.
All of us in Jamaica were raised on the Bible. As children, we were told by adults that sex was not for minors. As we grew older, we were taught that heterosexuality was the norm. Homosexuality was condemned by God: that’s what the Bible says.
I can still remember the first gay man I became aware of. He worked in a beauty parlour on the same road where I lived. 

I was about eight or nine years old at the time. And I came to realise he wasn’t ‘normal’. He walked with a swing in his hips and his hair was straightened. And he was a hairdresser! Those days, that was women’s work.
I can’t remember the first gay woman I became aware of. It seems as if we’re not so obsessed about them in Jamaica. It’s gay men who are constantly scrutinised. And since women are open about friendship and love to embrace each other, they could be gay and no one would be any the wiser.

‘BRAZEN PROPOSITION’

All that to say, I did get another email from ‘Jordan’ last week. It was funny. But I wan’t amused.Now I know how men feel when a man tries to have sex with them and they don’t want it. I’m an adult. I can make up my own mind. I’m not going to uncritically accept any interpretation of the Bible that claims we should call down hellfire on gay people. I have friends who are lesbian. But I’m not having sex with them. I’m not gay and I don’t want to be propositioned by women.

Here’s the email: “Good day Prof Cooper, how are you? I took a look at your blog it’s nicely set up. The articles are interesting.The patois makes me dizzy though as we read only english during my time at UWI. I know you don’t remember me but we ‘met’ briefly on the jogging trail a few mornings. I’ve always hoped you were gay but i never had the courage as a student to make such a brazen proposition!

“It would be good to have intelligent gay role models for homosexual youth in Jamaica, however i don’t think our society is ready for this.The PM seems to share the same sentiment as evidenced by her apparent avoidance of the issue which i believe to be a wise decision at this time. Developing a thriving economy and minimising corruption should be top priority …. well things may change unexpectedly … look what happened in Brazil a few years ago! Anyhow take care and keep up the exercise …. you look good girl !”

People take liberties with you if you’re not careful. It looks as if I’m going to have to stop writing for the Gleaner and reclaim my privacy. If it’s not abuse, it’s unwelcome advances. The only person I want to proposition me is a suitable gentleman of an appropriate age. No young boy. No old man. No married man. No man who is having sex with men and woman. You have to be literate.

You must have teeth. If you qualify, you can make an offer.  

Otherwise, please leave me in peace!

ENDS

also see from sister blog Gay Jamaica Watch: Inmate attacks alleged gay prisoner of challenges with what can be deemed inappropriate advances.

New Kingston Shoemaker Gully Homeless Gays Accused of Inappropriate Advance Towards Teen .......

or More Pastoral Inappropriateness & Under-aged Victims... Silence from The Selective Religious Anti Gay Fundamentalists? and Rev Clinton Chisholm on "Consensual Sex Revisited" 2011

WANNABE TIVOLI DON KILLED - Was warned to reconsider his desires 

Homophobic Killing or What? 

Peace and tolerance

H

"'Curing Intersex Is Damaging and Common": Great Piece by OII-Australia Member, Morgan Carpenter

One of the key human rights issues for intersex people is not the existence of binary genders, but what is done medically to make them conform to those norms, writes Morgan Carpenter.

Intersex, the I in LGBTI, is often invisible, assumed to be about sexual orientation or gender identity. In fact, intersex has more to do with the body.

Intersex people are born with sex characteristics that don’t fit stereotypical expectations for males or females. There are at least 40 known intersex variations, each different, with no homogenous intersex body or identity. Some intersex variations can result in visibly ambiguous genitalia, others don’t. Diagnosis can happen any time from prenatal testing through to adulthood.

Historically, intersex people have been regarded as something “other”, sideshow freaks or medical curiosities, objects for stigmatisation and discrimination. In more recent times, people with intersex bodies have been regarded as “disordered”.

One of our key human rights issues is not really the existence of binary genders, but what is done medically to make us conform to those norms. Over the last 60 years, diagnosis has led to surgical and hormonal interventions, often in infancy or childhood. For much of that time, a diagnosis was thought so shameful it often wasn’t disclosed.

It would be easy to imagine these issues are all in the past, a legacy of previous practices. We heard Dr. Shubha Srinivasan say how practices in the past were harmful, and how she hopes things have changed. She’s right, but there’s been no attempt at reparations.

As intersex advocates and peer support workers, we hear from adults with long histories of sexual and intimacy issues caused by “obsolete” surgical methods. We hear of attempts to recover childhood medical information, and even discrimination due to overt physical differences.

Not only do people with intersex variations suffer a legacy of clinical secrecy, of shame and stigma, we also suffer trauma due to medical intervention. And even so, this is not the full story.

The Australian parliament recognised our existence in 2013, with the inclusion of “intersex status” in anti-discrimination law, and a world-first parliamentary report into intersex health, and coerced sterilisation. We’re still waiting for a government response to that report, but we know a lot about current practices because of it.

Today, the testes of women like Bonnie are no longer routinely removed before puberty. Clinicians are better at diagnosis, and more likely to recommend a sex assignment based on “likely” future gender identity than surgical ease. There’s no longer a culture of secrecy around diagnosis itself. But much hasn’t changed.

The clinical language of “disorders of sex development”, rejected by community-led organisations, ensures that an intersex pregnancy and birth is still a problem to be “fixed”.

A Senate committee heard from clinicians that infants and children with ambiguous genitalia still face early surgeries. These happen when a clitoris is deemed “too big”, or a boy can’t stand to pee.

We regularly hear from parents with newborn infants. We hear how their child might be described as healthy - except for their intersex characteristics. Parents get a prompt referral to a surgeon, and maybe a late referral to a counsellor or psych. They might get a referral to a Toronto hospital website for background information, but no referral to an Australian support group.

We’ve seen medical papers that talk of the “pros and cons” of surgery, but only detail its necessity. That necessity is often based on stigma towards intersex people. Surgeries have the dubious aims of helping parents to love their children, preventing issues with baby-sitters or bullying in the changing room, and even improving marriage prospects. Genital surgeries aim narrowly to ensure heterosexual sexual performance.

Maybe surgeries do prevent some of those problems, some of the time, but there’s no firm evidence they do. Most often, treating a healthy body as a surgical problem is itself stigmatising. I know from my own experience that it’s not a good feeling to know that your body had to be modified to be acceptable to your family, and to society.

The science supporting current medical practice is contradictory and inadequate. Australian doctors themselves told the Senate they have “particular concern” about sexual function and sensation after cosmetic genital surgeries. One Australian hospital says that outcomes from current surgeries “remain to be established”, and yet there is no long term follow-up in this country.

Our National Health and Medical Research Council has heard that intersex variations are abnormal, disordered, defects, and people with them suffer psychological trauma. $5.5 million in public funds has just been invested in genetic research and testing - but no money goes to fund peer and family support.

We can’t keep removing the stigma of cosmetic differences with a surgical knife. It comes at the cost of future sexual function and choice. The Senate report said the status quo must change, and international human rights bodies are beginning to pay attention. Non-essential surgeries must be delayed until an individual can consent for themselves. Peer support must be integrated into clinical practice.

It’s ok to be intersex. The diversity of our bodies and identities are good things. We add to the richness of human existence. As the parent in The Feed’s interview said about us, “Let them enjoy their bodies, celebrate that difference”.

Morgan Carpenter is the president of organisation Intersex International Australia, a community organisation that promotes human rights and bodily autonomy for intersex people.