US gay rights activist lauds Botswana
Innocent Selatlhwa | Monday January 25, 2016 16:18
This was after his interaction with government officials and the civil society. Speaking to the media on Friday, Berry, who has since visited 35 countries since his appointment, said the special envoy does not push governments to legalise same sex marriages, but rather advocates against discrimination and violence on LGBTI.
“It is a difficult issue to discuss, but once engagements begin, you realise it is nothing to be afraid of. It is a reality. We have these people and it is not their choice, so conversations are very helpful,” he said.
Berry would not comment on the current court case in which government is pushing to block the registration of Lesbians, Gays and Bisexuals of Botswana (LEGABIBO), stating that he was not privy to the details.
He said he hoped that it would be resolved amicably in line with Botswana’s laws. He however said he would be following the case closely.
Berry said that even though it was a taboo to even mention LGBTI in some cultures, it was important that countries and faith organisations reviewed their laws and provisions to accommodate gay people. He said it was important that it be noted that being LGBTI was not voluntary hence it was important that the people be understood and not be stigmatised as it was the case in most areas.