![]() The gay pride flag is an international symbol for the equal treatment and rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBTQI) persons and can be seen flying outside many United States (US) embassies worldwide during this month, says the US embassy in Papua New Guinea. This comes after concerns were raised in the country on why the gay pride flag was raised at the US embassy in Port Moresby. According to the laws under the Criminal Code Act 1974, same-sex sexual activity is prohibited in Papua New Guinea, which criminalises “acts of sexual penetration against the order of nature and gross indecency”. The provisions carry a maximum penalty of 14 years, however, only men are criminalised under this law. Calls were made on various forms of social media platforms in the country, questioning why the Pride flag was flown at the US embassy in Port Moresby when same-sex sexual activity was illegal and also against the country’s Christian beliefs.
The embassy responded in a statement that every June, the US celebrated Pride month, marking the anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising, when patrons of a gay bar in New York stood up against discrimination, abuse, and mistreatment. “Since 2017, US embassy Port Moresby has flown the Pride or Progress flag during June,” the embassy said. “During this month, we hope to have thoughtful discussions and mutual learning with the citizens, government, and civil society of our host country, Papua New Guinea, which is an exemplary model of embracing strength through diversity. “Regrettably, some of the feedback we received was of a violent nature, we urge all parties to engage in respectful and compassionate dialogue,” the embassy added. Statement /PNGfacts Also read Comments are closed.
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