The Editor, Sir:

The following open letter was sent to Consul General Ms Anne-Marie Bonner of the Jamaican consulate in Toronto, Ontario, Canada:

Dear Consul General Bonner:

Egale Canada is seriously concerned about the escalating normalcy of mob attacks against the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-identified people of Jamaica. In particular, we write to you around the recent homophobic mob attack on the evening of January 29 that left one man severely injured and another missing and feared dead.

On December 10, 2007, at a meeting with the consul general, Egale representatives expressed concern about the lack of response and action by the Jamaica government around protecting the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-identified people in Jamaica from violence and persecution. At this time, we call upon the Jamaican government to investigate all reported violence relating to homophobic attacks.

Amend law

We also call upon the government to redraft the current bill before Parliament entitled 'An Act to Amend the Constitution of Jamaica to provide for a Charter of Rights and Freedoms'. As the current bill stands, the word 'sex' can only be interpreted to mean male or female. This exclusion clause goes against international human rights law. The government must take this opportunity to protect the rights of all citizens by including the right to freedom from discrimination on the grounds of sex, gender and sexual orientation.

We urge the Jamaican government to take all possible steps in working and supporting the initiatives of the Jamaica Forum for Lesbians All-Sexuals and Gays, JFLAG.

I am, etc.,

HELEN KENNEDY

Executive Director

Egale Canada advances equality and justice for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-identified people and their families across Canada.