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Repeal Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code

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We the undersigned stand in solidarity for the repeal of section 377 of the Indian Penal Code. Last week the Indian Government upheld section 377 of the Indian Penal Code that was drafted in 1860 during British rule in India and is enforced to criminalize "homosexual activity" even today. As per current law, homosexuality in India can invite imprisonment up to 10 years along with a substantial fine. Activists in Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai have vociferously demonstrated against this outdated law. But the Delhi High Court has refused to scrap Section 377 of IPC (Indian Penal Code) and/or to legalize homosexuality under the aegis of the Indian Home Ministry. MASALA stands proud with our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) family in South Asia and will raise awareness about the section 377 at Mela 08 that coincides with International Coming Out Day on October 11. This day is internationally observed as the civil awareness day for coming out and discussion about LGBT issues. We invite our community, friends, supporters and allies to show their solidarity by signing our petition for the repeal of section 377 of the Indian Penal Code. The petition will be presented to the Consulate General of India in New York City.

Sponsor

Massachusetts Area South Asian Lambda Association (MASALA) is a social group based in Boston, that provides a safe and supportive environment to New England based Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, transgender, and Questioning South Asians (people from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Burma, India, Iran, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Tibet; and from the global South Asian Diaspora). MASALA is an avenue where distinctions of social class, status, religious affiliations and regional identities dissolve while cultural richness, linguistic diversity and individuality are maintained to inform, enrich and empower. MASALA also takes pride in its cross alliance with organizations in the Boston area which strive against social taboos, ignorance, phobia and help foster general awareness in the realm of public health, fighting HIV and domestic violence to name a few. MASALA's events are open to all unless otherwise specified who believe they can contribute towards a more tolerant society that embraces differences and respects individuality.

Links

MASALA MELA 2008 http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs080/1101803570182/archive/1102261830358.html MASALA MELA Press Release http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs080/1101803570182/archive/1102271380649.htm Section 377 of Indian Penal Code http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Section_377_of_the_Indian_Penal_Code MASALA Mela gets political Edge Boston http://www.edgeboston.com/index.phpch=news&sc=&sc3=&id=81689
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