High Court in Dominica Strikes Down Anti-Sodomy Law, Paving the Way for LGBTQ+ Rights

The High Court of Dominica has made a landmark ruling, declaring the country’s anti-sodomy law unconstitutional. This decision, announced via Zoom, marks a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights in the Caribbean, reducing the number of nations with anti-LGBTQ laws to 65.

The case was championed by attorney Cara Shillingford on behalf of the plaintiffs, with the Attorney General’s Office representing the defendant. Despite opposition from local religious groups, including the Catholic and Anglican churches, the court sided with the claimants, represented by LGBTQ rights group Minority Rights Dominica (MiRiDom).

In a public statement, Daryl Phillip, founder and leader of MiRiDom, hailed the ruling as a victory for equality, dignity, and freedom. He highlighted the years of advocacy and legal battles that led to this moment and emphasized the need to continue the fight for full equality and acceptance.

The court’s decision invalidates sections 14 and 16 of the Sexual Offences Act of Dominica, which criminalized same-sex activity. This move aligns with the government’s acknowledgment that these laws violated the Dominican Constitution.

Phillip also remembered the victims of anti-LGBTQ violence in Dominica, including those who were murdered or committed suicide due to societal pressures. He emphasized that the repeal of anti-sodomy laws does not condone illegal behaviors such as pedophilia or rape, which remain punishable under the law.

Looking ahead, Phillip called on the LGBTQ+ community to embrace their identity with pride and called for broader societal support and respect for LGBTQ+ individuals. He stressed that while this legal victory is significant, it is just one step on the journey toward true acceptance and equality.

The statement concluded with gratitude to those who supported the case, including the claimants, advocacy groups, legal experts, and the broader Dominican community. It emphasized that this win belongs to everyone who believes in justice and equality, signaling hope for a more inclusive and accepting Dominica for all.