LGBTIQ persons must be afforded acceptance, respect and equal treatment, particularly during these critical times- Raj

The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission says lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer persons are already victims of homophobic violence, sexual exploitation and discrimination at home and in schools, when seeking gainful employment, accessing housing and healthcare but during these unprecedented times, these vulnerabilities and entrenched discriminatory attitudes amplify.

In his message for International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, Director Ashwin Raj says there is little contention over the fact that those that are most vulnerable groups are disproportionately impacted because of the deepening economic and social inequalities as a result of the pandemic.

Raj says LGBTIQ persons, both young and the elderly, face family rejection, endure domestic violence which is not only physical but also psychological, and bullying in their own homes which leads to depression, making them more vulnerable during lockdowns and containment.

He further says they are also subjected to abuse, hate speech and bullying on social media platforms adding that LGBTIQ sex workers who ordinarily face abuse and unfair treatment by their clients and when in conflict with the law are particularly vulnerable at this time.

Raj adds LGBTIQ persons must be afforded acceptance, respect and equal treatment, particularly during these critical times when many face financial hardship, job losses, homelessness and are susceptible to health risks.

He says family members of LGBTIQ persons are instrumental in preventing and combating abuse and discrimination by being more accepting and compassionate towards the LGBTIQ members of their family, more so during this pandemic which is blind to the barriers that we humans build to decide who belongs and who does not whether it be our homes, schools, places of workshop, or workplace.

Raj adds it affects one and all indiscriminately but it is the most vulnerable that pay the heaviest price for the barriers that we humans build.

The theme for this year’s celebration is Together: Resisting, Supporting, Healing.