Jamaica has the reputation of being one of the most violently anti-gay countries on earth.
Male homosexual acts are criminalized – and can be punished with up to 10 years of hard time in prison. While this law is not actively enforced, it is widely seen as a bulwark against immorality.
Jamaica: The Glass Closet Screening
Published December 29, 2009
Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009
Following MCCNY's church service (around 12:00 p.m.)
Open to the public
Q&A with producers following the screening
Metropolitan Community Church of New York
446 West 36th Street
New York, NY 10018
The Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting and Worldfocus present stories on HIV/AIDS and homophobia in Jamaica.
"The Glass Closet" is a multimedia website that reports on the AIDS epidemic and anti-gay violence in Jamaica. The videos explore how Jamaica's cultural, political and religious traditions are making it difficult for public health officials to control the spread of the AIDS epidemic.
And, in a country that holds the world record for the most churches per square mile, there's a public place of worship for almost everyone -- unless you're gay. One story follows Rev. Robert Griffin of the Metropolitan Community Church as he holds secret church services for Jamaica's gay community.
After being shot by anti-gay gunmen, a young lesbian from Jamaica was granted asylum in the Netherlands.
Simone, a refugee fleeing homophobia in her native Jamaica, attempts to heal from the wounds inflicted by violent oppression.
Gateways
