In line with the series of activities organised for the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT), the Young Queer Alliance proceeded with the official launching of its barometer: “LGBTQI and Politics in the Republic of Mauritius (2000-2016)”.The launching ceremony of the LGBTQI Barometer was held at the Gold Crest Hotel, Quatre-Bornes in the presence of several personalities including members from other organisations.
“LGBTQI and Politics in the Republic of Mauritius (2000-2016)”; a pleasant novelty on the theme of LGBTQI in Mauritius
The Barometer was welcomed as a pleasant novelty on the theme of LGBTQI in Mauritius. However, during the open debate sessions, it was suggested that other microsocial factors such as the changes in mindset vis à vis the LGBTQI Community over the years be taken into consideration. Several members of the audience also suggested consultations with socio-cultural and religious organisations for the discussions of concepts within the LGBTQI framework and the notion of “public sensitivity”. This is partly due to the strike-down of the Sexual Offences Bill 2007, which was pro the decriminalization of the ‘act of Sodomy’ on the basis of “immorality”.
Young Queer Alliance Research Centre
The Barometer was accomplished through the endeavours of the Young Queer Alliance Research Centre. The Research Centre is currently working on several other projects and aims to improve access to LGBTQI-related information in Mauritius. The soft-copies of the publications are available freely on the YQA resource centre.
1. LGBTQI and politics in the Republic of Mauritius 2000 – 2010 Barometer
2. LGBTQI and politics in the Republic of Mauritius 2010 – 2016 Barometer