By Staff Reporter
Gays and Lesbians Association of Zimbabwe (GALZ) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent intimidation and vandalism which was done by a small group of protesters at its Harare office on Sunday.
The rights advocate for welfare of LGBTQ+ community in Zimbabwe, reported that the protestant actions have caused significant concern among its members and supporters.
The protesters were representing various church organizations, and they painted “hateful” graffiti on the walls while chanting slogans against the LGBTQI community.
GALZ responded with a statement condemning the protests saying this was unacceptable.
“GALZ, an association of LGBTI People in Zimbabwe, categorically condemns the acts of vandalism and intimidation that occurred 09 June 2024 at our Harare office around 3:30 pm.
“A group of individuals claiming to represent various Christian churches descended on our Harare centre, chanting slogans against homosexuality.
“They proceeded to vandalize the property, painting hateful graffiti on the walls,” GALZ said.
The organization also went on to report the incident to the police.
“GALZ has filed an official police report, and we are cooperating fully with the ongoing investigations. We call on the authorities to hold the perpetrators accountable for these criminal actions.
“This act of violence has not been committed in isolation, it is a stark reminder of the ongoing discrimination and hostility that our community faces”, said GALZ.
The organization emphasized the importance of tolerance and respect for diversity, urging authorities to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
“We urge religious and political leaders to condemn such acts of hate and to uphold the constitutional rights and freedoms for all citizens to be protected by law regardless of their diverse backgrounds including sexual orientation, gender identity and expression”, added GALZ.
Recently, the United Methodist Church in Zimbabwe staged an anti-homosexuality protest in Harare.
