(PRESS RELEASE) – Inalienable, interconnected and indivisible, human rights are for everyone and the foundation of Eastern Caribbean Alliance for Diversity and Equality Inc. (ECADE), is to help create a world where this is the reality.

Human Rights Day 2019 celebrates “Youth Standing Up for Human Rights,” and ECADE supports young people in using their voice to defend their rights and to create their future.

Central to our work is strengthening regional capacity for the defence and full recognition of human rights of all people.

ECADE celebrates its anniversary on Human Rights Day December 10, as it is founded on the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, that all men are created equal.

We believe youth involvement is essential in achieving a future that is fair and equal and always seek to engage youth voices towards that goal. Increasing the competence of young activists through mentorship, education and hands-on advocacy experience are just some of the ways we do so.

Caribbean youth who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ),face an uphill struggle in being recognised and respected for who they are. ECADE advocates for a discrimination-free future by directly challenging anti-gay laws and policies in the eastern Caribbean.

Today we celebrate the rich knowledge, thirst for learning, fearlessness and boundless enthusiasm of LGBTQ youth to grow and lead. LGBTQ youth are educating their communities, creating new streams of income, sustaining organisations while being visible in a world that seeks to deny their humanity. LGBTQI youth are in the forefront of advocacy to decriminalise sexual orientation, recognise gender identity and encourage acceptance of and normalise all sex characteristics.

As eastern Caribbean governments forge the path forward to address challenges such as the economy and job creation, climate change, substance abuse, health service, sexual and reproductive health and rights and justice system reform, we believe it is essential that LGBTQ youth are part of the conversation. Young people, the beneficiaries of the future we are creating, must be part of crafting it.

As we stand up for human rights and the advancement of LGBTQI and marginalised populations in the region, ECADE continues to support inclusion of youth at every opportunity. Youth voices must be heard in every forum and it is our responsibility to support youth standing up for human rights.

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