LEGAL dESK
Let’s
Walk Uganda Legal Desk was established in response to the urgent need for legal
support and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community 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 LGBTQ+
individuals 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 LGBTQ+
individuals 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 LGBTQ+ individuals 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 the LGBTQ+ community,
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 LGBTQ+ individuals are able to live freely, without fear of discrimination, persecution, or violence, and where their human rights are respected and protected.
objectives
1. Legal Assistance and Representation: The primary objective of the legal desk is to provide legal assistance and representation to LGBTQ+ individuals 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.
2. Advocacy and Policy Reform: The legal desk aims to advocate for policy reform and legal changes that will protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals 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 LGBTQ+ individuals.
3. Documentation and Reporting: Another objective of the legal desk is to document and report human rights violations and abuses against LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda. This includes collecting evidence, documenting cases, and reporting violations to relevant authorities and international human rights organizations.
4. Community Education and Empowerment: The legal desk seeks to empower the LGBTQ+ community 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.
5. 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 LGBTQ+ individuals 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 LGBTQ+ individuals 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 the LGBTQ+ community, 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 proceeded with the criminalization of same-sex relationships in Uganda, several members of the LGBT+ community have always been on the receiving end of violations. These violations range from evictions from houses to the non-provision of health services to arbitrary arrests, mob justice, unlawful imprisonment, and, in some cases, hate crimes.
Legal Aid Services
Providing legal assistance and representation to LGBTQ+ individuals who face discrimination, harassment, or legal challenges due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Enhancement of Justice for Legal Rights
LWU is dedicated to enhancing justice for the legal rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda. Through a range of initiatives, LWU works to address systemic discrimination, advocate for legal reforms, and provide legal support and representation for LGBTQ+ individuals facing persecution or discrimination. LWU’s efforts aim to promote equality, protect human rights, and ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals have access to justice and legal recourse in Uganda’s legal system.
Referral Services
LWU offers comprehensive referral services to LGBTQ+
individuals 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 LGBTQ+ individuals receive timely and appropriate
assistance. Through its referral services, LWU aims to address various challenges
faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, including accessing healthcare, legal support,
mental health services, and community resources, ultimately promoting their
well-being and resilience.