The Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) has unveiled its LGBTQIA+ Manifesto 2025, urging political parties contesting the upcoming elections to prioritize better protections for queer youth. During a media launch at Herdmanston Lodge in Georgetown, SASOD’s Managing Director, Joel Simpson, highlighted key areas of focus, including constitutional reform, healthcare, education, and measures to combat sexual and gender-based violence.
Simpson emphasized the importance of eliminating discriminatory laws to protect LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly the repeal of sections 351 to 353 of the Criminal Law Offenses Act, which criminalizes same-sex intimacy between consenting adult men. He expressed concern for youth in less progressive households who face violence upon coming out, noting the need for shelters and support systems.
SASOD aims to engage political parties in a town hall on July 29, seeking commitments to implement these measures by 2030. The manifesto also calls for anti-discrimination education in schools and comprehensive legislation to eradicate discrimination across all sectors. Businessman Enzo Christopher reinforced the initiative, stating that over 100 businesses have endorsed the Guyana Together Campaign, promoting inclusivity for all sexual orientations.
With the upcoming elections, SASOD is hopeful that the proposed measures will gain traction and lead to meaningful changes for the LGBTQIA+ community in Guyana.
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