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24/05/95
GAY AND LESBIAN RIGHTS IN THE
CONSTITUTION
There has been mush debate in the press regarding
the inclusion of homosexual rights in the general non-discriminatory clause of
the
new constitution. In particular much of the criticism of the inclusion
of these rights has come form members of the African
Christian Democratic Party
(ACDP).
Our interim constitution protects all individuals in this country
against discrimination, regardless of race, gender, religion or
sexual
orientation.
The interim Constitution has swept away the intolerance
which has caused immense suffering and hardship to so many inhabitants of
this
country in the past. It is essential that the new Constitution ensures that all
humans are entitled to the same rights based
on the general principles of
equality.
The Government of National Unity therefore cannot allow a small
minority grouping in this country to undermine this principle . If
they are
allowed to do so (based on so called “Christian norms”) may they
then not be able to extend their efforts to
introduce discrimination against
all groups of people who do not comply with their “norms’.
Examples could include polygamy, freedom of expression of other
religions,
discrimination against non-religious people, single mothers people with AIDS,
etc.
If the ACDP and life-minded groups are allowed to succeed on their
efforts then the struggle for liberation , equality and justice
has been for
nothing
[editor’s note: signature illegible]
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