On the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) 2025, the Interfaith Diversity Network of West Africa (IDNOWA) stands in solidarity with LGBTQI+ individuals across the region and globally. This year’s powerful theme: “The Power of Communities,” reaffirm our commitment to fostering inclusive and affirming spaces within faith-based communities and beyond.
In West Africa, where LGBTQI+ individuals often face profound discrimination, stigma, and violence, the strength of supportive communities is not just a comfort, but a lifeline. IDNOWA recognizes the vital role that faith communities can play in either perpetuating or dismantling harmful narratives. We believe that true faith is rooted in love, compassion, and justice, values that must extend to all members of our human family, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
However, we cannot ignore the stark realities faced by LGBTIQ+ communities in our member countries. The likes of Ghana, Nigeria, Benin, Togo and others, such as:
- Criminalization and Legal Persecution: In several West African nations, same-sex relationships are criminalized, leading to arrests, imprisonment, and severe penalties. This creates a climate of fear and forces LGBTIQ+ individuals to live in hiding, denying them basic human rights.
- Violence and Discrimination: LGBTIQ+ individuals are frequently subjected to physical and verbal violence, harassment, and discrimination in various settings, including families, schools, workplaces, and public spaces.
- Lack of Access to Essential Services: LGBTIQ+ people face significant barriers in accessing healthcare, education, and other essential services due to
- Religious Intolerance: Misinterpretations and weaponization of religious texts fuel prejudice and hatred towards LGBTIQ+ individuals. This results in social ostracization, family rejection, and the denial of spiritual support.
- Increased Anti-trans Sentiment: There is a growing wave of hateful rhetoric and legislation targeting transgender people specifically.
- State-sanctioned Voilence: In some member countries, law enforcement participates in the harassment and assault of LGBTIQ+ individuals. This can include extortion, unlawful arrests, and physical violence.
“The Power of Communities” underscores the transformative potential of collective action. IDNOWA is dedicated to building bridges of understanding and acceptance within religious institutions, challenging discriminatory ideologies, and promoting dialogues that affirms the dignity and worth of every person.
IDNOWA calls on religious leaders, policymakers, and community members to join us in embracing the power of communities to create a world where everyone can live with dignity and respect. We must challenge harmful narratives, promote inclusive policies, and build bridges of understanding across lines of difference.
For this IDAHOBIT 2025, let us renew our commitment to building communities where love triumphs over hate, and where every person is celebrated for who they are.
Together, we are unstoppable.
Together, we are the power of communities.
Mr. Davis Mac-Iyalla
Executive Director
Interfaith Diversity Network of West Africa.
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Interfaith Diversity Network of West Africa 