Obama Condemns Uganda’s Anti-Gay Bill: This Will ‘Complicate Our Valued Relationship’
The White House on Sunday issued a statement from President Obama saying he is “deeply disappointed” in the decision of Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni to sign a recently passed bill leveling harsh penalties on Ugandan’s LGBT community.
“As a country and a people, the United States has consistently stood for the protection of fundamental freedoms and universal human rights,” Obama said. “We believe that people everywhere should be treated equally, with dignity and respect, and that they should have the opportunity to reach their fullest potential, no matter who they are or whom they love.”
“That is why I am so deeply disappointed that Uganda will shortly enact legislation that would criminalize homosexuality,” the statement continues. “The Anti-Homosexuality Bill in Uganda, once law, will be more than an affront and a danger to the gay community in Uganda. It will be a step backward for all Ugandans and reflect poorly on Uganda’s commitment to protecting the human rights of its people. It also will mark a serious setback for all those around the world who share a commitment to freedom, justice and equal rights.”
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