Urging Jamaican authorities to take immediate action to curb violence against the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and to provide appropriate police protection for all of their citizens.

WHEREAS,

On January 29th , several individuals approached the home of four men and demanded that they vacate the home because they were gay; and,

WHEREAS,

Later that night, a mob gathered outside the house. The four men phoned police when they witnessed the gathering. The mob surrounded the house and began to shout and throw bottles. The four men phoned police, again, and were told that officers were en route. Approximately thirty minutes later, the police had not arrived and the mob broke down the door of the house and began to beat and slash the four men; and,

WHEREAS,

Local police did not arrive on the scene for an additional 30 minutes – 90 minutes after the initial call. One of the victims fled the scene and was pursued by members of the mob. The victim is still missing. The other victims suffered various injuries including a severed ear, broken bones and spinal injuries; and,

WHEREAS,

This incident mirrors similar incidents throughout Jamaica. On April 8, 2007, Easter Sunday, approximately 100 men attacked a church where a gay man’s funeral was being held. When police were called, they arrived 30 minutes later and began to socialize with the mob. One officer told the church goers “Enough of you guys.” When mourners attempted to defend themselves, the police finally intervened, searched the victims’ vehicles and detained several gay men; and,

WHEREAS,

On April 2, 2007, a crowd attacked three allegedly gay men when they began dancing at Carnivale; and,

WHEREAS,

On February 14, 2007, a crowd of 200 threatened four men, including the co-chair of the Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-sexuals and Gays. When police arrived, officers taunted the victims and struck one in the face, head and stomach; and,

WHEREAS,

All individuals, no matter what race, creed, color, religion or sexual orientation they are, deserve respect and protection. It is the job of local, state and national governments to provide that protection. The Jamaican government has not, to date, provided the protection that all deserve, no matter who they are; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA,

Urges Jamaican authorities to take immediate action to curb violence against the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and to provide appropriate police protection for all of their citizens.

FURTHER RESOLVED,

That a copy of this Resolution be sent to the Jamaican Embassy as a representation of the true wishes and sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

End