Holding Hands

You may have heard a news story recently about a change in Ugandan law that now allows courts to punish homosexuals with life prison sentences or the death penalty. Eastern Africa in general is extremely intolerant of homosexuality. Coming from the place and culture I do, it is very difficult to accept this reality in this culture.

However, another interesting observation may seem in complete contrast to this when viewed from my own cultural context. It is very common for friends to walk down the street holding hands. Women with women. Men with men. There is such a strong anti-homosexual culture that is assumed that there is no romantic relationship. The two people holding hands seem to be expressing deep friendship.

To me, it is such a powerful display of friendship and in some ways I wish it was a part of my own culture.