LAIA ROS
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©2024 Laia Ros
QUEER RESILIENCE
LGBTQIA+ rights are not equally protected globally. Kenya, is ranked 155 out of 197 in LGBTQIA+ equality index; although identifying as homosexual or organizing LGBTQIA+ rights events is tolerated, homosexual acts between consenting adults are illegal and carry a maximum penalty of 14 years' imprisonment. These anti-gay laws are rooted in the country's British colonial history with the 'civilising' outreach of the Church of England’s missionary body and more recently the overwhelming presence of American evangelical churches and their growing influence in government.
Kenya presents a paradox: the Penal Code criminalizes homosexual acts and is mainly enforced against gay men yet, Kenya’s 201 constitution prohibits discrimination on any grounds, including sex -the loophole that enabls queer organizations to create safe space despite the stigma.
These colonial remnants are worsened by ultra-conservative USA religious groups promoting 'family values' against queer rights in Africa: nowadays, many politicians, governments, and religious groups claim homosexuality is un-African, pushing homophobic legislation and threatening the balance. However, queer individuals reclaim their right to exist and celebrate their uniqueness through drag shows, fashion runways, and ballroom events. These gatherings become demonstrations of queer resilience.
This project was developed in collaboration with the journalist Myrto Vogiatzi: we were invited to these spaces and I could document the joy and resilience of the community through portraits and handwritten statements about their performances. All participants gave informed consent, ensuring the ethical use and distribution of the images.
Published in El País, and selected for the first round of the Canon Student Development Programme (2024).