Activist Seguya wins 2024 David Kato Vision and Voice award

US-based Ugandan human rights activist, Hillary Innocent Taylor Seguya is the 2024 David Kato Vision and Voice Award (DKK) winner. 

The award has been given annually since 2012 in recognition of Kato’s life and work. Kato was murdered on January 26, 2011. The award recognizes the leadership of individuals who strive to uphold the numerous dimensions of sexual rights for LGBTQ+ people.

The award was presented to Seguya at Protea hotel by legislators; Moses Kabuusu and Micheal Kakembo. At the event that was attended by members of civil society, legal fraternity and members of the diplomatic community, Seguya, who is currently based in the United States said online that he was humbled.

“David Kato continues to inspire us and holds a special place in my heart. The award stands as a symbol of resistance against oppression and a beacon of hope for all of us who are fighting for fundamental human rights,” he said.

“I accept it not only on my behalf, but on behalf of every unsung hero and human rights defender who has dared to stand against injustice, every individual who has refused to be silenced, by fear, and every voice that has demanded to be heard with dignity.”

On his part, Dr Frank Mugisha, the chairperson of the DKK Memorial Lecture Committee, said that as they reflect on Kato’s death, it’s important for activists and partners to think soberly about the impact of trauma on the mental health of the sexual minorities community.

Mugisha, a leading diversity inclusion activist, further called for new ways of addressing the vitriol and hate towards the community by countering false narratives that become pervasive, especially in moments of crisis. He reiterated his concern for the plight of the queer community and appealed to the philosophy of “Ubuntu” to guide every person as they deal with the community.

On his part, Francis Harimwomugasho, a minority rights advocate, who delivered the keynote address said lawyers ought to have an obligation to provide legal services to all those that are marginalised and downtrodden.

Previous award recipients have been Jamaican Maurice Tomlinson, Zimbabwean Martha Tholanah, Ali Erol from Turkey and Cambodian transgender activist Sou Sotheavy.