World Vision issues statement about Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill

This comes from Dean Owens at World Vision:

Statement by Rudo Kwaramba

National Director, World Vision Uganda

Regarding the Anti-Homosexuality Bill of 2009

The legislation under consideration by the Ugandan Parliament, commonly referred to as the “Anti-Homosexuality Bill,” has the potential to stigmatize some individuals in communities targeted by World Vision’s work.  World Vision hopes this legislation will not deter individuals from being tested for HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.

Knowledge of one’s HIV status – regardless of one’s sexual orientation -enables an individual to take actions to prevent further transmission of HIV, as well as to protect oneself from infection.

World Vision has been working in Uganda since the mid-1980’s and has more than 500 staff members in the country, the majority of whom are Ugandans.  Uganda is one of the first countries in which we started HIV education and prevention programs. One of World Vision ‘s prevention models aims to reduce any stigma which may deter people from seeking to know their HIV status.

As a Christian humanitarian organization, World Vision strives to reach out and bring justice to the poor, vulnerable and marginalized.  We serve all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. We do not require or compel those we serve to adopt our Christian faith.

As a signatory to the Red Cross Code of Conduct, World Vision is committed to providing assistance for children, their families and communities on the basis of need, without discrimination of any kind. As in other nations, World Vision’s work in Uganda is community-based and child-focused; the sexual orientation of those we serve, or those with whom we collaborate, does not arise.

Regardless of whether this legislation is passed, World Vision is committed to serving the poor, vulnerable and marginalized people of Uganda.

    END

I have made this argument before that the bill will stigmatize HIV/AIDS to the point where treatment, testing and education will be significantly compromised for same-sex and opposite sex attracted people.