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Somalis launch public gay site
19 November –
Somalia- A group of
Somalis wrote their names in the genesis book of history at the weekend
by launching the first-ever gay website [www.somaligaycommunity.org].
The Project Manager of Somali Gay
Community in the United Kingdom, Murad, said the site, which aims to woo
Somalis the world over, is designed to bridge information drought
surrounding gay affairs in a purely conservative and Muslim society like
Somalia.
"The goal of the group is to create a space and a means for Somali gays
and lesbians access to information, share experiences and develop
support networks," Murad told afrol News.
He said the site will serve as a guide to “our brothers and sisters
confronted with their same-sex affairs”. This will enable them to
overcome their difficulties.
Murad said Somalia’s gay community lacks information on gay issues, but
hoped that the new medium will effect some changes.
“It is shame that we are still confronted with discrimination based on
religion, sexuality, race and colour in this modern world,“ he said,
describing education as the only means of shaping the minds of people.
At the moment, the group composed of men alone, but it is wielding
campaign to lure Somali women homosexuals to share their experiences on
matters impeding their lesbian lives.
“Love and attraction between two men is universal and documented
throughout history in various cultures,” a story on the group’s website
read. “Homosexuality is not an appalling habit or lifestyle that one can
pick up when living in the west as many of us have heard being said by
our family, friends and community.
“Gay friendships are also a vital as in most cases become our second
family. The people that some become increasingly reliant on when cut-off
from traditional families.”
The group said in pursuit of your gay or lesbian goals, one does not
necessarily abandon or neglect “other aspects of yourself - your culture
and religion.
“Be who you are! It is a liberating feeling to embrace every aspect of
yourself rather than live in denial and unhappiness.”
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