US reacts after Burundi president says gay people should be stoned
The United States said on Friday it was troubled by comments from Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye, who last week called on citizens of the small African country to stone gay people.
The comments escalated a crackdown on sexual minorities in a nation where LGBT people already face social ostracism and jail terms of up to two years if convicted of same-sex offences.
“The United States is deeply troubled by President Ndayishimiye’s remarks targeting certain vulnerable and marginalized Burundians,” U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement.
“We call on all of Burundi’s leaders to respect the inherent dignity and inalienable rights, including equal access to justice, of every member of Burundian society.”
The statement did not refer specifically to the remarks about stoning.
In May, Uganda passed a law that carried the death sentence for certain categories of same-sex offences. The United States has imposed a range of sanctions including travel restrictions and removing Uganda from a tariff-free trade deal.
US support for gay rights
The United States has made significant strides in supporting gay rights over the years. One of the most pivotal moments was the legalization of same-sex marriage nationwide in 2015. This landmark decision came as a result of the Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, which affirmed that same-sex couples have the fundamental right to marry. Additionally, the US government has implemented policies and legislation aimed at protecting the rights of LGBTQ individuals, such as anti-discrimination laws and hate crime protections. The support for gay rights in the US is also evident in the public sphere, with widespread advocacy, visibility, and representation of LGBTQ individuals in various sectors of society.
The US government’s support for gay rights extends beyond domestic policies and legislation. Internationally, the US has been an advocate for LGBTQ rights, promoting equality and non-discrimination on a global scale. The State Department has actively engaged in efforts to advance LGBTQ rights worldwide, including advocating for decriminalization of homosexuality in other countries and providing support to LGBTQ activists and organizations. Furthermore, the US has utilized its diplomatic influence to address human rights violations against LGBTQ individuals in different parts of the world, demonstrating a commitment to promoting equality and dignity for all.
The US has demonstrated substantial support for gay rights through legal advancements, policy initiatives, and international advocacy efforts. While challenges persist, the progress made reflects a commitment to fostering inclusivity and equality for LGBTQ individuals both domestically and internationally.
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