Imagine meeting anyone with the a homosexual matchmaking software eg Grindr or Scruff. You exchange small-talk and you will aroused photo for several weeks prior to inquiring your into the a date. The guy indicates the neighborhood, popular eatery, but if you come, police officers swoop in the and you can stop your. Since it works out, the beau are an enthusiastic undercover manager; you are informed your are charged with “debauchery,” as well as your discussions and you can images would-be used since research facing your inside demonstration. Could result in paying half a year in order to half a dozen ages from inside the jail, where you are at the mercy of torture.

It is not particular Orwellian hypothetical; it’s a significant reality to own queer people in Egypt, plus one you to appears to be bringing even worse.

On September 22, a great Lebanese rock band, Mashrou’ Leila, starred a performance within the Cairo. Mashrou’ Leila’s direct artist was openly gay, and several fans waved pleasure rainbow flags regarding crowd—a critical political work during the a country for example Egypt, having a lengthy reputation of state-sponsored queer oppression. Continua a leggere