This a big step forward for the Gay rights movement as the top court of Barbados struck down homophobic laws that criminalized gay sex. Doing so, Barbados becomes the third nation in the Caribbean region to throw down such discriminatory laws. Although the court issued an oral ruling referring to such laws as unconstitutional, they will not release a written judgment until late January.
A Joyful Moment for the Community and Activists
Needless to say, this ruling issued on Monday was a huge and festive moment for the community along with all the activists and organizations who fought against such laws. Moreover, two more nations of the Caribbean region – Antigua and Barbuda and St Kitts and Nevis also overthrew such laws earlier this year. However, this leaves only six countries in the Americas including Jamaica and Dominica with similar homophobic laws.
Barbados Attorney General Dale Marshall announced this ruling on Tuesday, 13th December. In a statement, he said this ruling concludes that Sections 9 and 12 of the sexual offenses were unconstitutional. This means the Barbados government can no longer prosecute persons under these sections.
Although the written reasons for the decision are not expected for a few weeks, it’s still unclear if the government plans to appeal the ruling. Nevertheless, activists and non-profit organizations applauded this ruling since it is a huge step against discrimination.
Why is it such a Huge Step for the LGBTQ Community in the Region?
Well, these colonial-era laws have been standing long enough which promoted the discrimination they faced every day. So, this step was certainly necessary for their rights and freedom of expression.
Téa Braun, chief executive of Human Dignity Trust said in an interview, ‘While the laws were rarely invoked, they signal that LGBTQ+ people are criminal and lesser citizens.’ She added ‘The striking down of the laws reverses that and overnight tells the entire society that this is consensual contact and that what people choose to do with their private relationships is not the business of the law’ On this note, she also mentioned ‘The striking down of these laws doesn’t solve all problems of course. The dismantling of these laws is the first major step, but not the last step.’
So it’s safe to say that the fight against discrimination is far from over but still, this is a big and joyful win for the LGBTQ+ community. Because this will stand as a symbol of motivation for the whole community along with the ones who fought for their rights.
