https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R._N._Taber
The most important Human Rights award in Italy was
awarded in December 2017 to a gay Muslim activist who was originally from
Pakistan. The Italian Coalition for Freedom (CILD) chose Wajahat Abbas Kazmi as
‘Young Activist of the Year’
Wajahat Abbas Kazmi with notification of his award.
(photo from the Internet)
Some years ago, I spent a very enjoyable evening in a gay bar where I met two guys from Karachi. I was pleasantly surprised as the only Pakistanis I had encountered previously were aggressive homophobes. Recently, I met up with them again while they were visiting the UK. It seems the tide is (very) slowly turning in Pakistan where there are more gay activists campaigning for acceptance and equality within the wider community than even just a few years ago. It is heartwarming news although always disquieting to discover that some parts of the world continue to disrespect Human Rights and get real about life in the 21st Century.
NERVES OF STEEL or GAY IN KARACHI
Nerves of steel, here, in Karachi
where life may take a cruel turn any day
such as we, savaged for our sexuality
Born a good person, and born free,
yet living a lie (since truth denied its say)
nerves of steel, here, in Karachi
Absurd, that any 21st century city
should count among its taboos being gay,
such as we, savaged for our sexuality
Family, neighbours, look up to me,
yet mind-body-spirit as vulnerable as clay,
nerves of steel, here, in Karachi
Victims of a contemporary society
where majority bigots (even as they pray)
such as we, savaged for our sexuality
No regard for a common humanity
(of socio-cultural-religious icons an array);
nerves of steel, here, in Karachi,
such as we, savaged for our sexuality
Copyright R. N. Taber 2018
