President Bush may be sending more troops to Iraq, but that doesn’t mean Iraqi gays will get more protection. Though we’ve covered this story before, we think it’s worth noting that Iraqi gay activist Ali Hili has again spoken out against the wide spread abuses facing Iraqi’s queers.
Speaking to about 250 people at Saturday’s Faith, Homophobia and Human Rights in London, Hili blasted the government and security forces for blasting gays:
Members of these militias have infiltrated the Iraqi police and are abusing their police authority to pursue a plan to eliminate all homosexuals in Iraq. This is happening with the collusion of key ministers in the Iraqi government… What is happening today in Iraq is one of the most organized and systematic sexual cleansings in the history of the world.
Despite years of abuse, mainstream news outlets and national governments have been slow to react. Well, actually, they’ve been less than slow. They’ve been downright negligent. But, we suppose that’s the cost of democracy, right?
Scott
That seems to be the trend in the media, see no evil speak no evil hear no evil. They are completely silent on humanity issues and especially gay issues in the entire region.
James Hedges
I am hosting an art show exposing the atrocities committed by Iraqi militias against gays in Iraq. The show will be held in Orlando, FL this spring (date TBA) at the Hedgecross Studio at Cavatappi. I am seeking support from local queer art collectives and local holocaust organizations. Anyone interested or who would like to participate contact me at [email protected]
James Hedges