Biography:
Clare Byarugaba is a prominent Ugandan LGBT activist who has fearlessly spoken out against her government’s anti-LGBT rhetoric. Raised in southwestern Uganda, Clare has faced immense challenges and threats to her safety, but her unwavering commitment to fighting for equality and justice has made her an iconic figure in the struggle for LGBT rights in Uganda and beyond.
As the co-coordinator of the Civil Society Coalition on Human Rights and Constitutional Law, Clare has played a pivotal role in mobilizing grassroots movements and advocating for the rights of LGBT individuals in Uganda. Her tireless efforts have brought attention to the discriminatory laws and policies that perpetuate discrimination and violence against the LGBT community.
In 2013, Clare made headlines when she announced her plans to start a Kampala chapter of PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays), a support group for relatives of LGBT individuals. This initiative was born out of the recognition that not only LGBT individuals suffer from discrimination but also their families who often face social ostracism and hostility. Despite the immense risks involved, Clare remained steadfast in her determination to create a safe and supportive space for both LGBT individuals and their loved ones.
Unfortunately, her activism and bravery came at a great personal cost. In the wake of President Yoweri Museveni’s ban on homosexuality, Clare faced the most significant threat to her safety when she was outed by a national tabloid. Her face was plastered on the cover, and she was subjected to malicious threats and attacks, which forced her to live in constant fear for her life. Despite this horrifying ordeal, Clare’s spirit remained unbroken, and she continued to fight for the rights of her community and to speak truth to power.
In 2014, Clare received the well-deserved recognition for her exceptional activism when she was named the Oak Fellow with the Oak Institute for the Study of International Human Rights at Colby College. This prestigious fellowship not only validated her significant contributions to the field but also provided her with a platform to share her personal story, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and shedding light on the struggles faced by LGBT individuals in Uganda and around the world.
Clare’s courage and resilience have made her an inspiration to countless individuals in Uganda and beyond. She has become an emblem of defiance against oppression and a symbol of hope for those fighting for LGBTQ+ rights. Her unwavering dedication to advocating for equality and justice has left an indelible mark on the history of the LGBTQ+ rights movement in Uganda and continues to shape the fight for human rights globally.
Awards:
– 2014 Oak Fellow with the Oak Institute for the Study of International Human Rights at Colby College.