The Hidden Violence Against LGBTQ People Nobody Talks About

 


by  John M Wambugu  2023

In many parts of the world, LGBTQ people continue to face discrimination, rejection, and violence simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. In Kenya, many members of the LGBTQ community live in fear every day. While some people may think this violence is rare, the truth is that many cases go unreported because victims fear being attacked, arrested, rejected by their families, or humiliated by society.

Kenya remains a deeply conservative society where same-sex relationships are still heavily stigmatized. Although the country’s constitution protects human dignity and freedom, many LGBTQ people continue to experience harassment, threats, physical attacks, and emotional abuse. Some are rejected by their families, chased away from their homes, dismissed from jobs, or attacked by mobs after their identity becomes known.

One of the biggest challenges LGBTQ people face in Kenya is silence. Many victims never report the violence they go through because they fear further persecution. Some fear the police may not protect them, while others worry about public shame and rejection from their communities. As a result, many suffer quietly with depression, trauma, anxiety, and loneliness.

Over the years, several disturbing incidents involving LGBTQ individuals in Kenya have drawn public attention. In 2023, the murder of Kenyan LGBTQ activist Edwin Chiloba shocked many people both locally and internationally. His body was found dumped in a metal box on the roadside in Uasin Gishu County. His death sparked outrage among human rights organizations, with many activists calling for justice and greater protection for LGBTQ people in Kenya.

Human rights groups have also documented repeated violence against LGBTQ refugees living in Kakuma Refugee Camp in northern Kenya. Reports by Amnesty International and the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission revealed that LGBTQ refugees have suffered rape, physical assault, harassment, intimidation, and discrimination inside the camp. Many victims said they lived in constant fear because attackers often acted without punishment.

In some cases, anti-LGBTQ protests and public hate speech have increased fear among sexual minorities in Kenya. In 2023, demonstrations were held in places like Mombasa and Eldoret where protesters openly condemned LGBTQ people and displayed hateful messages. Human rights organizations warned that such actions encouraged violence and deepened discrimination against already vulnerable communities.

Apart from physical violence, many LGBTQ people also experience emotional and mental suffering. Some are disowned by their families after revealing their identity. Others are forced into hiding or pressured into marriages to appear “normal” in society. Many young people struggle with depression and emotional trauma because they grow up in environments where they are constantly judged, insulted, or threatened.

Social media has also become another dangerous space for LGBTQ people. Videos and photos exposing suspected LGBTQ individuals are sometimes shared online, leading to public humiliation, threats, and cyberbullying. In some cases, people are tracked down after being exposed online.

Despite these challenges, many Kenyan LGBTQ activists and human rights defenders continue to speak out courageously for equality, dignity, and protection. Activists like Kenneth Thethe have faced attacks because of their advocacy work, yet they continue fighting for safer communities and equal treatment for all people regardless of their sexual orientation.

The hidden violence against LGBTQ people is not just a political issue; it is a human rights issue. Every person deserves safety, dignity, healthcare, education, employment, and freedom from violence. No one should be beaten, threatened, rejected, or killed because of who they are or who they love.

Kenya has made some progress in conversations around human rights and inclusion, but much still needs to be done. Society must learn to promote tolerance, understanding, and compassion instead of hate and violence. Religious leaders, community leaders, families, and the government all have a role to play in protecting vulnerable people and ending discrimination.

The fight for LGBTQ rights is ultimately a fight for humanity, equality, and dignity. Until every person can live freely without fear, the struggle for justice and acceptance continues.

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