Madonna Releases Statement On Malawi Release

Madonna has released a statement on the gay couple being released from a Malawi prison:

Dear Friend,

I have always believed love conquers all - yesterday I got to see it in action.In the last week over 30,000 of you added your name to mine calling for the release of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga - the Malawi couple sentenced to 14 years hard labor for the "crime" of homosexuality.With incredible joy, I am writing to share with you that Malawi President Bingu wa Mutharika has ordered their release. Steven and Tiwonge were freed on Saturday night. They have won their freedom and you have been a part of it.I would love to hear your reaction to this news. Share your thoughts now:

raisingmalawi.org/lovewins

We celebrate this astounding turn of events with Steven, Tiwonge, and the countless Malawians fighting for their release. It is a historic day for Malawi.Though they are free from prison, sadly their safety and future in Malawi is still unknown. I hope this is just the beginning of our work together.Human rights injustices continue for so many Malawians facing poverty, disease, and a lack of critical resources. There are still over two million orphans and vulnerable children who need to experience love's embrace.It is going to take the love and creativity of all of us to bring justice to the
people of Malawi.That's why I would like to hear from you. Tell me your thoughts on this important day in Malawi:

raisingmalawi.org/lovewins

Thank you for joining me in Raising Malawi.

With great love,

Madonna

keep reading

Malawi Men Released

These two men have become celebrities for the horrible treatment they received from the Malawi government. They were sentenced to 14 years hard labour for performing an engagement ceremony. Their official conviction was for gross indecency and unnatural acts. Malawi president Bingu wa Mutharika ordered their immediate release following pressure from around the world. The asshole was far from happy about it but I hope it sends a message that this is unacceptable.
keep reading

Madonna Codemns Malawi Decision

Madonna released a statement condemning the Malawi government for sentencing two gay men to 14 years of hard labour for having an engagement ceremony last year. Remember, Madonna has adopted two children from Malawi and I think it's a positive step to bring attention to this disgusting decision.

I am shocked and saddened by the decision made today by the Malawian court, which sentenced two innocent men to prison. As a matter of principle, I believe in equal rights for all people, no matter what their gender, race, colour, religion, or sexual orientation. Today, Malawi took a giant step backward. The world is filled with pain and suffering; therefore we must support our basic human right to love and be loved. I call upon the progressive men and women of Malawi - and all around the world - to challenge this decision in the name of human dignity and equal rights for all.

keep reading