Liberia’s cultural ambassador Julie Endee says Lesbian, gay and transgender members have no place in the culture of Liberia.
According to her as Liberia’s Cultural Ambassador she cannot co-exist with the growing numbers of gay and transgender people.
Ambassador Endee was speaking during presentation of role of women in peace advocacy at the fifth annual international convention of the Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) held in Minnesota.
“I’m the queen of the traditional community and I can say this with no doubt that our chiefs, elders, and zoes will never accept such practice.” Endee said during question and answer session.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional community Madam Endee said Liberia’s culture was authentic and that such practices contravene the true meaning of its traditional and historical heritage.
“Not because it’s working in America or other places so it should work in Liberia. We have our values and people cannot impose on us what they do in their countries. That’s not democracy.”
She maintained that traditional leaders in the country were firmed on said move, with a call on Liberians to promote their culture and values. “It’s a no no by our traditional people. Man sleeping with man. Woman sleeping with woman, no,” she added.
Meanwhile, Madam Endee comments have generated mixed reactions from several personalities at the convention including human rights experts who argued that said move was a recipe for chaos and possible withholding of potential donor aide by partners to the West African state.
Liberia has several number persons involved in same sex activities but are not known because the country is yet to recognize right to same sex marriage.
So far, records show LGBT community in Liberia continue to face national rejection and death threats with little or no support from government and citizens.
