A British recommendation for stronger protections for LGBTQ people in Antigua and Barbuda has drawn objections from social media commenters invoking religion, national sovereignty and cultural differences, alongside support from others who welcomed the call.
The responses followed a report on the United Kingdom’s recommendations during Antigua and Barbuda’s Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations Human Rights Council.
Many of the comments supplied to Antigua Newsroom opposed the recommendation, with several citing biblical teachings and questioning Britain’s role in advising the country.
“Absolutely not they have their own culture and we have ours!” wrote Roy Lloyd.
Living To Tell questioned whether Antigua should follow “the word of the Heavenly King” or “what the earthly Kings say,” while other commenters quoted Proverbs 14:34.
Some challenged Britain’s authority to make recommendations, drawing on the country’s colonial relationship with the Caribbean.
“I’m pretty sure Antigua & Barbuda has some recommendations for the UK. Let’s see if the UK follows THOSE recommendations,” wrote DrColin Campbell, adding a reference to King Charles.
Other responses questioned whether additional protections were necessary. Denroy Henry asked what protection was being sought, suggesting that LGBTQ people were already visible in Antigua.
The discussion also included derogatory language and an explicit call to ban LGBTQ people.
However, some commenters supported the British recommendation or challenged the hostility expressed in the discussion.
“Agree with u uk,” wrote Matt Matthews.
Another commenter urged people to let others “live inna dem truth,” while Estheban Feliz sarcastically described the thread as having “absolutely no vitriol or hate.”
Ignatius Hood drew a distinction between personal beliefs and treatment of others, writing: “I will always defend a person’s dignity but I can never endorse a lifestyle that is counterproductive.”
The comments reflect responses within the supplied social media discussion and do not establish the views of the wider population.
During the UN review, Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation said constitutional protections against discrimination extend to sexual orientation and gender identity following the landmark 2022 court ruling that decriminalized consensual same-sex relations.
The delegation also acknowledged the need to challenge longstanding societal attitudes through education and awareness campaigns.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: UK call for stronger LGBTQ protections in Antigua and Barbuda draws social media backlash.