The lesbian founder of UK Black Pride has turned down an honour from the Queen, saying the legacy of the British colonial empire is “toxic” as British anti-gay laws still exist throughout most of its former colonies. Phyll Opoku-Gyimah was offered the Member of the British Empire (MBE) for her service to the community but turned down the honour as a matter of principle. The trade unionist and out lesbian told Gay Star News; “Over the years, I’ve heard people say “I wouldn’t accept” and then they’ve accepted. “Whilst that’s fine and great for them, and huge respect for them wanting that accolade for the work they do, I cannot accept something I don’t believe in. The legacy of colonialism is toxic and continues today. One way of showing solidarity is truly standing behind our friends in Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Ghana. It’s not that I’m doing this for them but I wouldn’t stand for something that is an injustice and an insult to the lives they are living.” Homosexuality was criminalised throughout the British empire however while the UK repealed the laws at home, 40 out of 53 former British colonies still hold these laws and outlaw homosexuality.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 5th January 2016 - 9:15am