The Stories of Discrimination Against Persons With Disability in Nigeria.
This week, we start in Kenya, where a female football coach is breaking barriers in men’s football. Next, we head to Nigeria, where people with disabilities continue to face daily challenges and discrimination despite legal protections. Finally, we stop in Lebanon, where African students in Beirut are torn between staying amidst the conflict or returning home.
But first, the Anglican Church of Southern Africa (ACSA) has rejected a proposal to allow bishops to bless same-sex marriages. ACSA represents over four million members across South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho and Ewastini, with the Church of England as its parent church. In December 2023, the Church of England allowed bishops to bless same-sex unions, but this has only been adopted in South Africa and St. Helena, where LGBTQ rights are fully recognized.?
Recently, Bishops Raphael Hess and Stephen Diseko urged ACSA to reconsider its stance, presenting a proposal to the Provincial Synod, the church’s highest decision-making body. They called for the need for respect, love and safe spaces for queer people within the church. However, the Synod reaffirmed that marriage remains defined as between one man and one woman. Inclusive and Affirming Ministries, a South African LGBTQ rights group, expressed disappointment, stating that this not only encourages hostility and marginalization of queer people but also sets back the journey towards inclusion.?
This situation shows the struggle to reconcile traditional beliefs with the growing understanding of LGBTQ rights in faith communities. But regardless, queer rights groups will continue advocating for a more accepting and compassionate church community.