We, the undersigned, come together in unity and solidarity to express our unwavering support for and solidarity with ASEAN SOGIE Caucus, an alliance of organizations and individuals advocating for the rights and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTIQ+) people in the ASEAN region. We are deeply concerned and saddened by the recent attacks on the ASEAN SOGIE Caucus and the subsequent cancellation of the ASEAN Advocacy Week scheduled to be held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from 17th to 21st July 2023.
For years, ASEAN SOGIE Caucus has long been at the forefront of promoting human rights, equality, and inclusivity for LGBTIQ+ individuals across Southeast Asia. Their dedication and tireless efforts have played a vital role in advancing the rights of marginalized communities, empowering LGBTIQ+ individuals, and fostering dialogue and understanding within the ASEAN region.
We strongly condemn the acts of aggression, intolerance, and hate directed towards the ASEAN SOGIE Caucus and the wider LGBTIQ+ communities in Asia. These attacks not only undermine the principles of human rights and dignity but also hinder progress towards a more inclusive and just society. We firmly believe that embracing and celebrating diversity, respect, and acceptance are core values that must resonate with all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. We stand in solidarity with the LGBTIQ+ community in Indonesia and affirm their right to live free from discrimination, violence, and stigma. It is crucial for society to recognize the inherent worth and equal rights of all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. We call for an end to the propagation of anti-LGBT sentiment and the implementation of measures that promote understanding, empathy, and support for LGBTIQ+ individuals.
Our solidarity extends beyond the ASEAN region, as we acknowledge the persistent challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ communities across Asia who are facing relentless attacks and a troubling anti-rights and gender backlash movement. Discrimination, violence, and marginalization continue to impede the full realization of the rights and well-being of LGBTIQ+ individuals in many countries. We call on governments, civil society organizations, and individuals across the region to actively work towards ending all forms of discrimination and violence against LGBTIQ+ people and to create inclusive spaces that embrace diversity and respect for all.
As members, partners and supporters of ILGA Asia, we commit ourselves to amplifying the voices of LGBTIQ+ communities, supporting their struggle for equality, and advocating for their rights at local, national, and regional levels. We stand united in our efforts to build a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone can live free from fear, prejudice, and discrimination.
We urge governments, institutions, and stakeholders in the ASEAN region and beyond to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of human rights, non-discrimination, and inclusivity by actively supporting the work of the ASEAN SOGIE Caucus and other LGBTIQ+ organizations. We must work together to create an environment where everyone can express their identities and live their lives with dignity and respect.
In closing, we express our wholehearted support for ASEAN SOGIE Caucus and LGBTIQ+ activists and communities, especially those in Indonesia, as we continue to advocate for the rights and dignified existence of each and every individual within our vast and vibrant community. Let us remain steadfast in our solidarity and collective efforts to create a world where every individual, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics can thrive towards equitable inclusivity across Asia.
In Solidarity,
ILGA Asia
Access Chapter 2
Aidsfonds
Aliran
All Out
ALTSEAN-Burma
APCOM
ASEAN Regional Coalition to #StopDigitalDictatorship
Asia Feminist LBQ Network
Asian Community AIDS Services (ACAS)
Association for the Promotion of the Right to Difference
Babaylanes, Inc.
Bisi Alimi Foundation
Centre for Humanitarian Leadership, Deakin University
Commonwealth Equality Network
ENSEMBLE pour le respect de la diversité
Equal Asia Foundation
EQUAL GROUND
Flinders University
GAYa NUSANTARA
Global South Coalition For Dignified Menstruation
HIV Justice Network
HIV Legal Network
HSI Foundation
ILGA World
Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM)
Institute for Policy Research and Advocacy (ELSAM)
International IDAHO Committee
Intersex Philippines
IT'S T TIME & Asia Pacific Transgender Network
Kaleidoscope Trust
Korean Sexual-minority Culture & Rights Center
LGBT Centre
Manushya Foundation
Mitini Nepal
Monash Uni Mal
Morgane Oger Foundation
NOOR
ODRI-Office against discrimination, racism and intolerance
Outright International
Polonia inclusive
Power of Pride
Rainbow Railroad
RESURJ
Same Love Toti
Sandbox
SEED
Sex og Politikk (IPPF Norway)
ShanghaiPRIDE
Southeast Asia Freedom of Expression Network
Stonewall UK
Taiwan Equality Campaign
Taiwan Tongzhi (LGBTQ+) Hotline Association
The Institute for Studies of Society, Economy & Environment (iSEE)
The Queer Livelihoods Project
University of Nottingham
WILPF Canada
Young Pride Club
Youth LEAD Mongolia
