A year after Uganda enacted one of the world’s harshest anti-gay laws, many LGBTQ+ exiles are struggling to start over in new countries, facing challenges that include finding work, homes, safety, and acceptance. The Anti-Homosexuality Act, signed into law in May 2023, imposed severe penalties for LGBTQ+ individuals, leading many to flee persecution in Uganda.
Despite seeking refuge in countries like Canada, Kenya, and Germany, LGBTQ+ Ugandans continue to face obstacles and discrimination. Some, like Henry Mukiibi and Steven Kabuye, have found temporary safety, but their long-term dreams include resettling in North America and studying human rights law.
Organizations like Rainbow Railroad and Oram have been instrumental in helping LGBTQ+ refugees navigate the challenges of exile and seek a better life. However, the journey is fraught with difficulties, including lack of documentation, discrimination, and violence.
The struggle for LGBTQ+ rights continues, with individuals like DeLovie Kwagala advocating for change from their new base in Berlin, highlighting the importance of freedom and acceptance for all individuals.