A law that is pending in the House of Representatives would criminalize homosexuality and prohibit same-sex marriage in Liberia.
Gay sex, labeled as "voluntary sodomy" is already illegal there, and those convicted are punished by up to one year in prison. This legislation would make homosexuality and gay marriage second-degree felonies, with a penalty of up to five years in prison.
The law is supported by Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, despite the fact that she said she would veto any legislation having to do with homosexuality in her campaign. Her only defense of the law was that Liberians have traditional values in their society they "would like to preserve".
In Liberia, the LGBT community already live in a difficult environment filled with discrimination, violence, and hate.
Please tell Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to veto this bill!
Dear Ellen Johnson Sirleaf,
I am writing to you today concerning a bill that would criminalize homosexuality and gay marriage in Liberia with a punishment of up to five years in prison.
In Liberia, the LGBT community already suffer from discrimination, violence, and hate. Not only would that bill make their situations worse, but you promised to veto any bills that have to do with homosexuality.
Please keep your promise and veto the bill.
Thank you for your time.
