LEGAL dESK
Let’s Walk Uganda Legal Desk was established in response to the urgent need for legal support and advocacy for sexual minorities and key populations in Uganda. In 2023, facing the detrimental impact of the Anti-Homosexuality Act Law, Let’s Walk Uganda recognized the escalating human rights violations and abuses faced by sexual minorities across the country. With a commitment to promoting equality, respect, justice, and equal opportunities for marginalized communities, the organization expanded its efforts by founding the Legal Desk.
The Legal Desk aims to provide essential legal support, guidance, and representation to individuals from key populations who have faced discrimination, violence, and persecution due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. By leveraging legal expertise and advocacy, the desk strives to challenge discriminatory laws and policies, seek justice for victims of human rights violations, and raise awareness about the rights of sexual minorities in Uganda. Furthermore, the Legal Desk works to collaborate with legal professionals, human rights organizations, and governmental bodies to foster a more inclusive and just society for all.
Through its steadfast dedication and unwavering commitment, Let’s Walk Uganda Legal Desk stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment for key populations, advocating for their fundamental rights and striving to create a more equitable and accepting environment within Uganda.
VISION
The vision of Let’s Walk Uganda Legal Desk is to create a society in Uganda where sexual minorities and key populations are able to live freely, without fear of discrimination, persecution, or violence, and where their human rights are respected and protected.
objectives
Legal Assistance and Representation: The primary objective of the legal desk is to provide legal assistance and representation to sexual minorities and key populations who have experienced discrimination, harassment, or violence based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. This includes providing legal advice, filing lawsuits, and representing clients in court.
Advocacy and Policy Reform: The legal desk aims to advocate for policy reform and legal changes that will protect the rights of key populations in Uganda. This involves working with lawmakers, government officials, and other stakeholders to promote the repeal of discriminatory laws and the implementation of new laws that protect the rights of sexual minorities.
Documentation and Reporting: Another objective of the legal desk is to document and report human rights violations and abuses against sexual minorities in Uganda. This includes collecting evidence, documenting cases, and reporting violations to relevant authorities and international human rights organizations.
Community Education and Empowerment: The legal desk seeks to empower key populations in Uganda by providing education on legal rights, self-advocacy, and legal procedures. This includes conducting workshops, training sessions, and outreach programs to inform community members about their rights and how to access legal support.
Collaboration and Networking: The legal desk aims to collaborate with other human rights organizations, legal professionals, and civil society groups to strengthen its impact and create a network of support for sexual minorities in Uganda. This includes forming partnerships, participating in coalitions, and sharing resources and expertise.
mission
core values
To provide dedicated legal advocacy, support, and representation for sexual minorities and key populations in Uganda, advocating for their rights, challenging discrimination, and working towards the eradication of human rights violations. We strive to uphold justice, equality, and dignity for all members of marginalized communities, empowering them to live openly and authentically without fear of persecution or discrimination. Through our legal expertise and collaborative efforts, we aim to create a more inclusive and equitable society where every individual is respected and afforded equal protection under the law.
. Equality and Justice
. Human Dignity
. Empowerment
. Non-Discrimination
. Collaboration
WHAT WE OFFER
Access to Justice Unit
Owing to the environment that has preceded and followed the criminalization of same-sex relationships in Uganda, several members of sexual minorities and key populations have continuously been subjected to violations. These violations range from evictions from homes to the denial of health services, arbitrary arrests, mob justice, unlawful imprisonment, and, in some cases, hate crimes.
Legal Aid Services
Providing legal assistance and representation to Sexual Minorities individuals who face discrimination, harassment, or legal challenges due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Enhancement of Justice for Legal Rights
Let’s Walk Uganda (LWU) is dedicated to enhancing justice for the legal rights of sexual minorities and key populations in Uganda. Through a range of initiatives, LWU works to address systemic discrimination, advocate for legal reforms, and provide legal support and representation for individuals facing persecution or discrimination. LWU’s efforts aim to promote equality, protect human rights, and ensure that key populations have access to justice and legal recourse in Uganda’s legal system.
Referral Services
Let’s Walk Uganda (LWU) offers comprehensive referral services to sexual minorities and key populations in Uganda, providing access to essential resources, support networks, and specialized services tailored to their unique needs. LWU collaborates with a network of trusted partners, including healthcare providers, legal experts, mental health professionals, and community organizations, to ensure these individuals receive timely and appropriate assistance. Through its referral services, LWU aims to address various challenges faced by key populations, including accessing healthcare, legal support, mental health services, and community resources, ultimately promoting their well-being and resilience.