Sogie (or sexual orientation and gender identity and expression), as a term in itself, recognises the diversity of human sexuality and its many forms of expression. Boxing then the debate in the perspective of ‘male versus female rights’ already highlights some of the issues that the Sogie Equality Bill seeks to address.

We need to recognise that violence and discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community exist, and that persons of diverse SOGIE are oftentimes being disadvantaged for simply not conforming to some’s conservative notion of what makes males and females.

It is crucial to understand that diverse SOGIE form part of a person’s identity. And if people are harmed for simply asserting themselves as humans, then the State must be ready provide equal protection through laws and policies.

The SOGIE Equality Bill, therefore, does not create or ascribe new rights. It merely demands recognition that everyone is born free and equal in dignity and rights, and that systemic oppression necessitates corrective, affirmative action.

In the end, the message is simple—that regardless of your sexual orientation and no matter how you opt to express your gender, you are human, as is with everyone else who needs to be respected and given the opportunity to pursue a well-lived and dignified life. ###