GALHA Condemns Vatican Attack on LGBT Rights

London, 3 December 2008 — The Gay and Lesbian Humanist Association (GALHA) has condemned a statement by the Vatican’s permanent observer at the United Nations, which criticises a declaration against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The declaration, which originated from negotiations between the French government and the International Day Against Homophobia and is now officially supported by the European Union, is due to be presented to the UN General Assembly between 15 December and 20 December.

In the statement Archbishop Celestino Migliore, the Holy See’s permanent observer at the UN, claims that if the anti-discriminatory laws are adopted “they would create new and implacable discriminations”.

GALHA’s secretary, David Christmas, described the statement as “ludicrous”. He continued “The accusation that it is in some way discriminatory to attempt to counteract the prejudice and hatred which exists in over 80 countries that outlaw same-sex relations would appear to be yet another example of the Vatican turning logical thinking on its head.” Mr Christmas pointed out that in nine countries or regions of countries the mandatory punishment for homosexuality is death by execution. “Isn’t the Vatican supposed to believe in the right to life,” he asked?

A GALHA spokesperson pointed out that in 2009 the Gay and Lesbian Humanist Association will be marking its 30th anniversary. “That’s 30 years of counteracting the religious intolerance which does so much to impair the progress of LGBT rights in the UN and around the world. The appalling bigotry of the Vatican as highlighted by this statement can only motivate us to redouble our efforts in this regard.”

Notes for editors:

GALHA provides a voice for the many non-religious in the LGBT community in the United Kingdom and elsewhere and promotes a rational approach to LGBT rights as human rights. For its 30th anniversary in 2009, GALHA is holding a series of special public meetings and events including an exhibition of its work in central London.