A call for Pacific Islands Forum to Decriminalize and Protect LGBTI People in Pacific Nations - The Samoa Planet

by Aria L. Sale, 26 June, 2018. – Leitis in Waiting Pacific Equality Project are calling for support to protect and promote the human rights of gender and sexual minorities in the Pacific Islands.

With a petition, the group hopes to rally the support of the Pacific Islands Forum Chair, country leaders and member states.

Their goals include the implementation of laws which will protect all LGBTI citizens; the enforcement of policies of full decriminalisation of colonial-era and other laws that restrict Pacific LGBTI citizens freedom of expression and the denouncing of homophobic and transphobic prejudice.

The Leitis in Waiting Pacific Equality Project is a campaign to support community building and advocacy efforts that promote the inclusion, equality and human rights for all.

A film made about the group won the ultimate accolade at the first ever Festival of Commonwealth Film held in London earlier this year in April.

The Documentary feature follows the story of Joey ‘Joleen’ Mataele and a group of Leitis’ who fight a rising-tide of religious fundamentalism in Tonga. The film also showcases the emotional journey they face, despite the social challenges.

The Leitis are now taking their mission to the Pacific, with the petition already gaining 553 signatures to date.

To find out more or to sign the petition, visit here.