In this section, I will provide information found on the Internet connected to dancehall and Jamaican homophobia from 2006 to present time.

...........................................................For previous news (1976 to 2004): click here
............................................................ For previous news (2005-2006): click here

.................................................................Back to recent news section: click here




January 24, 2007: A blog tarnishes the image of a Martinique dancehall artist Lieutenant
A letter posted on blog, signed 'Lieutenant' put the Martinique dancehall artist in hot water. The artist has been known for expressing his homophobic views in songs. In the letter, the author mentionned that he was seropositiv, that he receiving sexual favours as a child and wrote a list of people that he suggest of being 'battyboys' (homosexuals) to be executed. This message was circulating on Martinique blog website Blogsome entitled 'Lieutenant Terorriste', since November 18, 2006. In an interview for the BondaManJak website on January 24, Lieutenant said that he wasn't the author of the message circulating on the blog and that he would make the appropriate effort for this blog to be removed and to press charges. The same day, the story made the news of France RFO Radio along with various other media. The list of personalities originaly sited on the blog are: Vincent McDoom (variety television), Magloire (TV animator, actor), Jean-Emmanuel Emile (animator), Yves Bussy (annimator), Serge Letchimy (Fort-De-France mayor) et Alfred Marie-Jeanne (president of the regional council). Dancehall fans have criticized the message originally posted on the blog and seriously doubted that it was originated by the artist himself. On February 4th, 2007, a blog conversation state that the author of the blog, a 38-year old man from Martinique was arrested. The author of this 'joke' face five years of prison and a 45,000 Euro fine.
(NewMedia) (BondaManJak.com) (An Nou Alle letter) (LieutenantTerroriste.blogsome.com) (DOM Actu.com) ENGLISH: (HeraldTribune)


February 27, 2007: 'Batty Man' a documentary on black homophobia broadcast on Channel 4
This documentary was initially broadcasted during 'Gay Teens Week' on UK Channel 4, on February 27 2007. Channel 4 description: 'Comedian and actor Stephen K Amos uses his own experiences as a black gay man to explore why homophobia still exists in his own community. This observational documentary – the title of which is a derogatory term for homosexuals – follows Amos on a journey from his childhood homes in Brixton and Tooting, South London, all the way to Jamaica, where he tries to discover why prejudice, intimidation and violence against gay men remain so prevalent. Amos canvasses the opinions of young people in London, and of audiences on the comedy circuit. In Kingston, he talks to several young people who are living in fear of their lives, and to some of the dancehall musicians whose lyrics preach hate and violence against gays. Will he learn something on this journey about how attitudes might be changed for the benefit of the next generation of young, black gay men?' Features interviews with straight teenagers from England, gays from England and Jamaica. Also features interviews from dancehall acts Elephant Man and Heavy Steppaz, a group of Jamaicans Seven-Day Avendists, Lawrence Burke, archbishop of Kingston. The 48-minute documentary was filmed in late 2006 (probably November) and was produced by Clare Paterson and Paul Blake for Maroon Productions. It was nominated for a Chilldren's Award in September 2007 in the cathegory 'Learning Secondary'.

NOTE: I don't think this documentary was available for retail. I was able to see trough a friend who has an extensive reggae/Jamaican DVD collection.
(Channel 4)

March 1, 2007: British TV show dealing with black homophobia
The second season of the British TV show Hotel Babylon made an excursion into black homophobia and dancehall. The scenario deals with coming out and self respect. It's not the first time that homophobia is dealt on TV, but what makes this one particulary interesting is that the scene features members of the black community gathering in a private party where an homophobic dancehall song is playing in background. The scene was part of the episode No.3, broadcasted on March 1, 2007. Seems that some people appreciated the scene as it is now featured on YouTube. The spot is entitle: Is This Homophobia? Watch.
(Spot: IS THIS HOMOPHOBIA? WATCH) (Hotel Babylon)

March 19, 2007: An Nou Alle objects the nomination of Admiral T and Lieutenant for SACEM prizes
After receiving a price in November for his music, An Nou Alle questioned another nomination for the Admiral T, a musician that promote hatered and murder towards the gay community. Two dancehall artists Admiral T and Lieutenant were nominated for the SACEM prize. On March 22, they wrote that Lieutenant didn't win any prices in Martinique, but Guadeloupean artist Admiral T is listed in four cathegories. On April 2nd, they wrote that SACEM and the culture ministery chose to honorate Admiral T. On April 19, they reveiled the results of an internet poll stating that 84% thinks that the SACEM was judged 'unforgivable' for not listening to gays and lesbians concerns and allowing a reward to someone who never apologied for his hatered message sent towards the LGBT community. Over the same periode, An Nou Alle also questionned the right for Krys to performed at Le Zenith, on April 6th, because the concert hall belongs to the public found

NOTE: More information will come soon. The An Nou Alle website was not working at time of visiting.
(An Nou Alle: March 19) (An Nou Alle: March 21) (An Nou Alle: March 22) (An Nou Alle: March 30) (An Nou Alle: April 2) (An Nou Alle: April 5) (An Nou Alle: April 19)

More on 'Les Cesaires de la Musique' prize: (An Nou Alle: March 13) (An Nou Alle: March 19)

March 20, 2007: Elephant Man new homophobic single/video 'Lef Dem To Time'
A new Elephant Man single was issued on March 20, on the Church Heathen riddim is (label: Big Yard). The video is mockering gays and transgenders. With the outro of this video, Elephant Man is trying to dilute all violent homophobia that he has spread over the years, by showing a man that is about to beat up the gay character portraid in the video, but then, the actor turn up to the camera and say that it's only a joke.

NOTE: The video was brought up to my attention in September 2007, but it was probably issued at the same time of the single.
(VIDEO: Lef Dem To Time) (LYRICS: Lef Dem To Time)

March 23, 2007: Beenie Man signs the 'Reggae Compassionate Act'
In order to avoid cancellation for his current tour, Beenie Man has signed an official document stating that he will no longer performed homophobic songs in Europe and America as well as in the Caribbean. His signature to the document states that he will completely stop writing homophobic songs and will not re-issue any of the past homophobic songs. By signing the document, the artist agreed to not pass any homophobic statement in interview. In February 2005, a deal was established between the dancehall records companies and gay and lesbian organisations, but that deal didn't imply the artists. This time, the Reggae Compassionate Act has to be signed by the artist themselves. Back than, Beenie Man didn't completely stop performing homophobic songs after the 2005 agreement, but his attitude did change, probably because of the pressure from the dancehall industry and the numerous boycott his tours suffered. This time, the artist should feel more responsibility once he signed that document.

NOTE: Unfortunateley, Beenie Man later said in an interview that he never signed the Reggae Compassionate Act. Is he bluffing or simply telling the truth... See lower under June 18, 2007. For more info on the Reggae Compassionate Act, look under MAY 11, 2007.
(picture of the Reggae Compassionate Act signed by Beenie Man)

April 10, 2007: Caribbean follows up Europe & USA: officials wants to ban Sizzla from entering St.Lucia
CASTRIES, St. Lucia (CMC): Director of the St. Lucia-based Caribbean Drug Abuse Research Institute, Dr. Marcus Day, has called on law enforcement authorities to refuse permission for Jamaican dancehall artiste Sizzla to perform here at a May 5 show. Dr. Day, in a letter to Police Commissioner Ausbert Regis, called for the artiste to be prevented from performing here because of what he said was his violent, anti-gay lyrics. He also lashed out at Jamaica for what he claimed was its culture of violence which is being imported into St. Lucia. Dr. Day requested the commissioner to pay particular attention to this "delicate legal matter" and called on the police to warn the promoters and producers of the show that they might be guilty of aiding and abetting criminal offences by giving a platform to Sizzla. "This guy should not be allowed to enter St. Lucia as far as I am concerned. These guys who sing this kind of crap should learn that if they want to do that in Jamaica and the Jamaica Government does not want to do anything about it, that's fine; but when they come out in the real world where people are supposed to be civilised then that stuff doesn't cut," he told a news conference Friday. (taken from Jamaica Gleaner) The show went on as scheduled.
(St.Lucia Star 1) (St.Lucia Star 2) (Jamaica Gleaner) (original letter) (St.Lucia Star: comments)

April 15, 2007: Sizzla signs the 'Reggae Compassionate Act'
It's the turn to Sizzla to sign the Reggae Compassionate Act, an official document stating that he will no longer performed homophobic songs in Europe and America as well as in the Caribbean. His signature to the document states that he will completely stop writing homophobic songs and will not re-issue any of the past homophobic songs. By signing the document, the artist agreed to not pass any homophobic statement in interview. In February 2005, a deal was established between the dancehall records companies and gay and lesbian organisations, but that deal didn't imply the artists. This time, the Reggae Compassionate Act has to be signed by the artist themselves. Although he felt pressured by promoters and the Dancehall Industry after the February 2005 deal and altered his concert list in order to performed in North America and in Europe, Sizzla never stopped to voice his oppinion on homosexuality. This time, the artist should feel more responsibility once he signed that document.

NOTE: Unfortunately, Sizzla was unable to respect his signature, see lower on JUNE 13, 2007. For more info on the Reggae Compassionate Act, look under MAY 11, 2007.
(picture of the Reggae Compassionate Act signed by Sizzla)

April 22, 2007: The Rasta View On Homosexuality?
Jamaica Observer ran an interview with an elder of the rastafarian community, which wanted to express his view on homosexuality. He is university educated and is considered an authority on certain aspects of our cultural heritage especially our music and politics. He had a burning desire to present a Rasta view on homosexuality especially in light of the recent mob actions (Half-Way-Tree and Montego Bay) against men said to be 'openly homosexual'. (look under CONSEQUENCES for more details on these mob actions – February 14, 2007 and April 1, 2007).
(Jamaica Observer)

NOTE: What could have been a revealing interview from someone with university degree trying to shed light on a deplorable situation (read discrimination, hatred and violence), end up being the usual point of view that we are so much accustomed by extreme religious groups. Mocking the equal rights quest, criticizing union, child adoption and gay pride, linking bestiality and incest with homosexuality... The only thing that is constructive in this interview, is the denunciation of violence, but then again, he claim for 'freedom of speech' without defining the boundaries that music should evolve in and excuses the attitude of Jamaican DJs. Is this really representing the view of the majority of the rastafarian community? Probably. But I'm positive that there are some rastafarians that have come to a greater level of overstanding, compassion and love and that's their oppinion that we want to read.

Ironically he dubbed himself 'Soul Rebel'... ;-). During the interview, instead of using the word 'gay' to talk about homosexuals, he preferred to used the antonym 'sad' (duh!). Well what is really sad, is to evolve in a world filled with narrow minded people like this.

April 27, 2007: Two videos of a mob beating a Jamaican transvestite posted on YouTube & JumpCut
On the morning of April 27, a crowd of people gathered around a man who was dress as woman, waiting for public transportation. The mob stoned him, beat him severly with batons and machets until the police came for rescue. In a severe condition, the young man was admited to the hospital. This incident occured in Falmouth, Jamaica. Although this type of incident seems to be less frequent, it still occur. Someone was able to film a part of the beating with a celular phone and made two video montages with it and posted them on YouTube and JumpCut. These videos are more than just capturing images from the beating, they bring the viewer to reflect upon the consequences of extreme homophobia leading to violence and put those beatings in parallel with black history. The first video recalls the beating incident, using Sizzla's extreme homophobic song 'Head Out' for background music, while the second video uses disturbing archive images of mob lynching.

NOTE: I usually place the information regarding these verbal and physical violence in the CONSEQUENCE section of this website, but due to the nature of the videos they belong also in this section. According to my research, due to it's extreme violent lyrics, this Sizzla song was never issued on any album or compilation, it was only available through unofficial DJ compilations in June 2006. I am unshure if these two videos were made by the same person.
(VIDEO: Battyman gets beaten in Jamaica Part One) (VIDEO: A Bashing In Jamaica) (VIDEO: different excerpt) (ARTICLE: Jamaica Observer)

May 6, 2007: Two Beenie Man concerts are cancelled in UK
The concerts that were scheduled for May 4th in Bedford at Chapel 29 night club and on May 6th in London at the Coronet were cancelled. The Luton gig sheduled for May 7th (or May 8th?) seems to happend as it was planned.

NOTE: I will bring more details soon.
(Inform.com) (PinkNews.co.uk)

May 7, 2007: Mélange Lavonne release the video 'Gay Bashing'
The 28 year-old Hip-Hop lesbian artist Mélange Lavonne released the video 'Gay Bashing in May 2007. She is part of growing Hip-Hop genre cristened HomoHop. The song 'Gay Bash' depicts her outrage toward the death of her friend Kevin at the hands of gay bashers and the judgment she faces for being gay from many Christian groups. The video premired at The OutFest in July 2007, but was online on YouTube since May 7, 2007. It was also featured in several movie festivals in 2007. Born in California, Mélange Lavonne was part of the historical HomoRevolution Tour, when several gay Hip-Hop groups performed in the Southwest of The United States in March & April 2007 (California, Nevada, Arizona, Minnesota, Georgia and Texas). More dates were later added to the tour. The Hip-Hop gay and lesbian artsits that were featured on the tour: Deadlee, Johnny Dangerous, Tori Fixx, Q Boy, DaLyrical, Shorty Roc, Bigg Nugg, JFP, FoxxJazell, Salvimex, Delacruz, Mélange Lavonne, Feloni, Miss Money, Best Inda Game, UNECC, W.L.R. (White Lesbian Raper), MZ. Fontaine, MC Flow & SOCE T.E.W.

NOTE: This is Hip-Hop and not dancehall, I agree. But I decided to make an exception as this is a fantastic example of what dancehall is needing to make things progress. Take four minutes of your time and watch that challenging video. I whish that one day that video will be included on the regular rotation of every music video channels.
(VIDEO: Gay Bashing) (Melange Lavonne website) (HomoRevolution Tour) (Deadlee Interview)
(INTERESTING ARTICLE: Why gay Hip-Hop?)

May 7, 2007: German TV special: Homophobia in Jamaica
German special on homophobia in Jamaica broadcasted on May 7, 2007. Interview with Gareth Henry (aka Gareth Williams) of J-FLAG (Jamaican Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays), Maria Carla Gulotta of Amnesty International, an homosexual that tells how he was badly beaten up named Victor, a pastor named Amen Campbell and a music promoter named Dennis Howard. The video was aired by German-Austrian-Suisse TV channel "3sat" in their regular evening programm called "Kulturzeit" (Time for Culture).
(KulterZeit Special: Homophobia in Jamaica) (info on KulturZeit special)

May 8, 2007: Two Capleton concerts are cancelled in Italy
Beenie Man, Sizzla, Capleton and Elephant Man are planned to play Italy this Spring/Summer. Italian gay and lesbian organisations are preparing some protests to let the concert goers know that anti-gay lyrics are not welcome in Italy. On April 30th, the LGBT Italian groups protest the venue of Capleton in four different cities. They were able to cancelled two of the four concerts: the one in Torino, scheduled for May 8 and the one in Rome, scheduled for May 12, 2007. Several pictures of the demonstration that occured in Rome can be seen on the link below, among them one Capleton poster, disguise with make up. The associations are also protesting against Elephant Man two performances: Milano on May 15 and Rome on May 16. The two concerts went as scheduled, but there was only a few people that attend the Rome concert, due to demonstrators.
(Nonsoloreggae Italian Blog) (Concerts Cancelled) (SOS Jamaica.org)

May 9, 2007: Amnesty International launch a petition against homophobic violence in Jamaica
Stand Up For Jamaica along with the italian division of Amnesty International are joining forces and launching a petition addressed to Portia Simpson-Miller. Giving examples of three recent homophobic mob violence, the petition ask for immediate actions along with the reform of the Jamaica Sodomy Law: "We urge you, as a leader, to publicly condemn these acts of violence, to call on the police to investigate speedily and thoroughly those incidents, and to send a strong message that abuses against LGBT people will not be tolerated anymore... We also urge you to use your power to call for law reforms, including the repeal of the Jamaican sodomy statutes (Art. 76 and 79 of the Jamaican Offenses against the Person Act), and the adoption of additional legal protections that would protect LGBT people from discrimination. " In early October 2007, 870 people had signed the petition so far. The petition will close on April 27, 2008.
(Reggae.it: PETITION (Electronic Document)) (SOS Jamaica: PETITION (Word Document))

NOTE: The petition start by " We are Italian citizens concerned" but I asume that anybody from any country can sign the petition, as there is a specific place to write down your city and country. I have seen a few people from other countries signing it so far.
NOTE: You may also sign the petition for a universal decriminalisation of homosexuality, provided by the IDAHO website (International Day Against Homophobia). The petition will be presented at the United Nation (date unknown). It was launched on November 20, 2006: PETITION...(article)

May 10*, 2007: Capleton signs the 'Reggae Compassionate Act'
After Beenie Man and Sizzla, it's now the turn to Capleton to sign the Reggae Compassionate Act, an official document stating that he will no longer performed homophobic songs in Europe and America as well as in the Caribbean. His signature to the document states that he will completely stop writing homophobic songs and will not re-issue any of the past homophobic songs. By signing the document, the artist agreed to not pass any homophobic statement in interview. In February 2005, a deal was established between the dancehall records companies and gay and lesbian organisations, but that deal didn't imply the artists. This time, the Reggae Compassionate Act has to be signed by the artist themselves. Capleton felt pressured by promoters and the Dancehall Industry after the February 2005 deal and altered his concert list in order to performed in North America and in Europe. In June 2005, while facing several concerts cancelled in France, Capleton signed a vague aplology statement that wasn't addressed to LGBT. In July 2007, he had a hit with the song HITS PON TOPPA HITS, a song where he enumerate several of his homophobic songs, stating that no one can touch his hits. Let's see if the artist feels more responsibility to act properly on record, on stage and in interview after signing the Reggae Compassionate Act.

NOTE: He also released the homophobic song TOPPATING in June 2005, but that was before he signed the document in France. He might have wrote and performed more homophobic songs, but I don't follow his career, so it's impossible for me to confirm. It seems he adapted his concerts after the February 2005 deal, at least in Europe and North America.

NOTE: I am unable to confirm the date that Capleton signed the Reggae Compassionate Act, as no date appear on the contract. It would probably be in early May 2007, as Peter Tatchell wrote his article congratulating Beenie Man, Sizzla and Capleton on May 11 for signing the Reggae Compassionate Act. I would guess that Peter Tatchell might have waited to get Capleton's signature prior to make a press release. So probably to say that the document would be signed on May 10 would be appropriate. For more info on the Reggae Compassionate Act, look under MAY 11, 2007.
(picture of the Reggae Compassionate Act signed by Capleton) (picture of the 2005 apology statement)

May 11, 2007: OutRage! congratulate the artists for signing the 'Reggae Compassionate Act'
Over the years, dancehall artists that spread homophobic messages in their songs faced a close door to the worldwide accalimed Italian reggae festival: Rototom Sunsplash. This year marks a new beginning as Sizzla and Beenie Man will be featured among the headline of the festival as they both signed important documents stating that they will no longer performed or write songs that discriminate gays and lesbians. Peter Tatchell:"The Reggae Compassionate Statement’s rejection of racism, homophobia and sexism is an important milestone. We rejoice at its commitment to music without prejudice. We are delighted that the Reggae Compassionate Statement* has been signed by Beenie Man, Capleton and Sizzla. Their disavowal of homophobia and other prejudices is a very welcome move. Although some artists did not stick to previous agreements, we accept that these three singers want to move on and put homophobia behind them. By signing the Reggae Compassionate Statement they are stating that, in future, they will not release new homophobic songs or authorise the re-release of previous homophobic songs. Moreover, they also agree that they will not make homophobic public statements.*In other words, they recognise that prejudice, hate and violence have no place in music – that singers should unite not divide, and uplift not put down, people of all races and sexualities. This agreement applies throughout the world – not just in Europe and the US, but also in Jamaica and the Caribbean". Rototom Sunsplash organiser: "We believe that these two letters are an extraordinary event. A great opportunity for all those who campaign for better reggae in a better world. We are conscious that they can retract everything, and of course we know that these documents will not make homophobic violence magically disappear from Jamaican society. Machismo, religious integralism and fanatism sink their roots in the island’s culture and society and will require many years to die out. But already the availability of two famous and important artistes to sign a clear and explicit document is, in our opinion, an extraordinary event: it is not only a great victory but also an opportunity of dialogue, that we cannot neglect."

THE STORY BEHIND THE REGGAE COMPASSIONATE ACT: Peter Tachell recalls: "Negotiations over the RCA began in March this year," he said, recounting how, "Eddie Brown of Pride Music U.K. - not a gay company despite the name, but a straight reggae promotion and PR firm - approached me expressing concern that the 'murder music' tag was harming the Jamaican music industry. He admitted the SMM boycott campaign had hit the artists hard financially and also damaged promoters like him. He offered to try to broker a deal to end the singers' incitements to murder LGBTs . Our aim is to stop murder music, so we agreed to cooperate. Eddie acted as the go-between." Then, Tatchell said, "Within the framework agreed with J-Flag, OutRage!, and BGMAG, Dennis Carney of BGMAG and I drafted the statement, and I sent it to Eddie Brown. Our draft consciously pitched it to reject all hatred and violence, and to appeal to reggae's tradition of one love, peace, and justice." After that, Tatchell told me, "Eddie forwarded our version to the singers and to his fellow reggae promoters. The artists rejected our first draft and we rejected the revised version they sent back to us. The title Reggae Compassionate Act was the idea of Eddie and his fellow promoters. Eventually, Eddie and his colleagues accepted our second draft, which was a slightly softer-worded version than the first. Nevertheless, it included all the essential points we wanted. He then put our new version to the singers on our behalf. One by one the four artists agreed to sign it." According to Tatchell, "Eddie arranged the actual signatures with the artists while some of them were in Jamaica and while others were on tour. He negotiated face-to-face with some of their managements. The four signed agreements were delivered to him. He then sent us PDFs of these signed documents, which I have put on my Web site." Tatchell added, "Eddie is totally confident that all four artists have signed - and we have their signatures, including Banton's and Beenie Man's, to prove it. The Reggae Compassionate Act was negotiated by Eddie Brown of Pride Music UK, with the support of the promoters Michel Jovanovic (Mediacom France), Klaus Maack (Contour Germany), Peter Senders (Panic Productions Holland), Fabrizio Pompeo (Tour de Force Italy), Julian Garcia (Roots and Vibes Spain) and Tim Badejo (Dubble Bubble Scandinavia).

NOTE: After learning that Sizzla, Beenie Man and Capleton signed the 'Reggae Compassionate Act' in March/April/May 2007, I whish that gay and lesbian organisations around the world would give these three artists a break and see how they behave. If the artists stick by their commitments, we should let them have their concerts all across Europe and North America without any protest. If we stop cancelling their concerts, our gesture will welcome more artists to sign the 'Reggae Compassionate Act', and this will shurely be one giant step in the right direction. See below on MAY 11 for more details on the statement.
(OutRage! and Black Gay Men Advisory Group letter to Rototom Sunsplash) (letter from Rototom Sunsplash organiser) (The Guardian) (Jamaica Observer) (Yardflex) (GayCityNews)

June 1, 2007: Jamaica selectors say no to 'murder music'
Some sound system selectors and radio disc jockeys are taking a stand against violence in music. Lyrical violence has slowly spread throughout the dancehall, resulting in feuds that incite fans and ruin dances. However, members of the Bembe Squad, and at least one radio DJ say they are not into promoting the violence. Selector Jigsy made his first announcement last Saturday on CVM TV's Hitlist, where he reportedly said he has stopped playing songs that "make no sense". "Certain music dat misleading people, me, Razz & Biggy, Richie Feelings and Rolexx (members of the Bembe Squad), we taking a stand in de music. Like certain cuss music we not playing, certain controversy song, we not playing dem," Jigsy told the Star. MORE ON LINK BELOW.
(The Jamaica Star)

June 13, 2007: Sizzla sings 'Nah Apologize' to no battybwoy in Berlin
Not even two months after signing the 'Reggae Compassionate Act', Sizzla proves that he has no intention of respecting his signature. On June 13, during his concert in Berlin, Sizzla performed the song 'Nah Apologize', his 'I will never apology to no battyman' anthem. While it was time to sing the chorus, he made a sing-along with the crowd, avoiding ironiaclly the use of the word 'battyman', leaving the crowd singing it for him. Other source says that he also performed the same sing-along in Paris on June 17, in Milan on June 20, in Bari-Modugno on June 22, at the Summerjam in Cologne on July 7, in Belgium on July 12. A similar sing-along seems to have occured in Zurich, on June 30, but the song was censored this time. According to the french website Reggealution, the setlist of his performance at L'Elysee Montmartre on June 17, 2007, Sizzla also performed the homophobic songs: 'To The Point'.
(FORUM: Compilation Statements) (ARTICLE: Sound System) (LYRICS: Nah Apologize)
(VIDEO: excerpt of 'Nah Apologize', performed live (July 3rd, 2007)) (LYRICS: To The Point)

June 16, 2007: Beenie Man: 'I never signed the Reggae Compassionate Act'
Being interviewed by 876Entertainment, Beenie Man says that he never signed the Reggae Compassionate Act.“I never signed it, maybe the promoters signed it, because every promoter have to sign if dem want dem concert fi keep, but if yu nah sing about dem, there is no need to sign it,” Beenie told Xtratainment over the weekend.“A guy come fi my sign paper inna Spain and tell we say we must sign, and mi tell dem mi nah sing no song about them so mi nah sign it. Ah politics dem a deal wid, me know that, so dem caan trick me,” he said. Beenie Man insists that he signed no such document.“Maybe the promoters dem sign because dem want to promote dancehall in Europe and if dem have to sign so that the man dem ease up offa we, then that dem a go do. They know that is Jamaica we live and how we feel about that lifestyle, but it is about getting dancehall out there, and to the world,” Beenie Man said. “Why would I sign when I am going to continue to perform these songs I have? I know that if the vibes lick me, and me decide fi do a song, mi not going to be able to do it, because mi dun sign already so that is why me nah go sign. No compromise. My ting ah my ting. Me know about me. Mi already tell dem at dem big press conference in Spain, fi dem lifestyle ah fi dem lifestyle, and that is not wholesome to my lifestyle. Mi love woman, mi no love man, Jah,” he said. Beenie Man declared that he was no ‘sell-out’ “Mi caan sell out dancehall, ah that mi sing, straight,” Beenie Man said. “The gays dem no have no visa power, dem no have no police power, demo no have dem power de fi stop dancehall, dem caan get me fi sign nothing fi compromise my beliefs.”Peter Tatchell answer to these allegations was: "What is absolutely certain is that these artists (Buju Banton and Beenie Man) have signed the Reggae Compassion Act, we have their signatures on the agreement. "The signatures have been authenticated as genuine. "Any attempt to deny that the artists have signed this agreement will just make them look dishonest, duplicitous and downright ridiculous." Mr Tatchell said that the deal had been brokered by reggae promoter Eddie Brown, of Pride Music, who knows the artists and flew to Jamaica to get their written agreement to the Act. "We have total confidence that Eddie Brown has got their signatures," Mr Tatchell said. "The insinuation that Mr Brown or anyone else forged the signatures is a mark of desperation, it reflects very badly on the character of the people making these allegations."
(One 876 Entertainment) (ClaudeMills.com) (picture of the Reggae Compassionate Act signed by Beenie Man) (PinkNews.co.uk)

NOTE: Would Beenie Man really signed the Reggae Compassionate Act and later playing hypocrite while being interviewed to save his ass in front of his Jamaican audience? Unless his mananger took the freelance to forge his signature.... than he could say that he did not signed the contract (more a pact for peace and common sense). The Reggae Compassionate Act doesn't look like an usual contract, so Beenie Man cannot go away with the fact that he signed several paperwork without paying too much attention to what he signed. Look upper, under MARCH 23, 2007 and MAY 11, 2007 for more details.

June 19, 2007: Elephant Man is not against signing the 'Reggae Compassionate Act'
In an television interview, Elephant Man express himself why he would probably sign the Reggae Compassionate Act. Altough his moral value doesn't accept homosexuality, he would likes to see an end to the war between LGBT organisations and be able to make his concerts freely accross North America and Europe.
(Elephant Man interview)

June 28, 2007: BBC Reports: Coming Out in Jamaica
"What happen when someone comes out in a homophobic country?" An excellent audio documentary about the situation for gays and lesbians in Jamaica. Several interesting interview with regular people, prists and activist working at the human rights group Jamaicans For Justice. This is Part One of a two-part documentary serie. The second part is about Coming out in South Africa.
(BBC report: Coming Out in Jamaica)

June 30, 2007: Does the Reggae Compassionate Act needs revision?
TEXT FROM ARTICLE: While it has been reported that reggae stars, Beenie Man, Sizzla and Capleton have all signed the Reggae Compassionate Act, which renounces homophobia and violence against lesbians and gays, other artistes have shown no compassion for the act, as they say it is not representative of their music and/or beliefs and therefore will not sign. Freddy McGregor, one of the more established reggae artistes in the business says his biggest problem with the act is that it is misleading and misinformed. "Di part a it weh me nuh really into is that dah act deh haffi guh re-write. Jamaica has developed two genres of music, reggae and dancehall. Wi all embrace dancehall, because is a part of our culture, but di problem is dat it seems like every time there is a problem wid di dancehall community, dem waan get reggae involved an eradicate. But there is no reggae artiste signature there, and mi nuh hear nuh gay a advocate 'gainst we. Me want dem people deh fi first an foremost change di word 'reggae' to 'dancehall'," he says. (more from the link below)
(TT Gapers)

July 7, 2007: Golding says 'no' to homosexuality
Opposition leader Bruce Golding has come out strongly against any change in legislation to sanction homosexuality in Jamaica, even as members of that community are moving for greater acceptance among locals.. "Let us be very clear. There are some countries that are prepared to overturn tradition and culture in the interest of what they regard as individual freedoms and to do so at the instance of the homosexual fraternity, which comprises a minority in the population. You will find this pretty prevalent in Europe. We (the JLP) are not prepared to go in that direction," he told the Sunday Observer. "We intend to uphold the laws of the country." At the same time, he made it clear that the JLP was not prepared to intrude on people in the privacy of their bedrooms, even as the party sought to ensure that the laws of the land are upheld. "We don't believe that the state should be pushing down people's bedroom doors to find what they do there, because, if you push it down today to enforce laws that relate to sexual activity, you will push it down tomorrow for some other purpose. So we are not going there," he said.
(Jamaica Observer)

NOTE: The Jamaica Observer article also includes interesting analysis coming from two Jamaican psychologists and one sociologist on Jamaican homosexuals becoming more visible.

July 20, 2007: Beenie Man denounced violence against homosexuals
After that he denied signing The Reggae Compassionate Act, Beenie Man denounced violence against homosexuals, but made it clear that he did not support that lifestyle. The deejay was responding to questions about an alleged deal with international gay rights groups, including the UK-based OutRage, in which he was said to have agreed to renounce violence against gays. He denied signing any such deal, which Outrage last month announced as the Reggae Compassionate Act, but at the same time said that violence against gays was wrong. "We don't need it," he told reporters shortly after closing Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest's Dancehall Night at approximately 7:15 Friday morning. "We don't need to kill dem. We just need fi tell the people dem the right ting because I not supporting a gay lifestyle because it's not wholesome to me." MORE ON THE LINK BELOW
(Jamaica Observer)

July 23, 2007: Buju Banton signs the 'Reggae Compassionate Act'
Would fifteen years of battle between LGBT organisation and Buju Banton come to an end? At least the fact that Buju Banton accepted to signed the the Reggae Compassionate Act (RCA) is a sign that he might want to move on with his career. He is the fourth signatary, after Beenie Man, Sizzla and Capleton. The RCA is an official document stating that he will no longer performed homophobic songs in Europe and America as well as in the Caribbean and the rest of the world. His signature to the document states that he will completely stop writing homophobic songs and will not re-issue any of the past homophobic songs. By signing the document, the artist agreed to not pass any homophobic statement in interview. In February 2005, a deal was established between the dancehall records companies and gay and lesbian organisations, but that deal didn't imply the artists. This time, the Reggae Compassionate Act has to be signed by the artist themselves. Let's see if the artist feels more responsibility to act properly on record, on stage and in interview after signing the RCA.

The very same day that Peter Tachell and The Guardian newspaper announced that Buju Banton had signed the Reggae Compassionate Act, RadioJamaica.com was publishing on their website that Banton's manager was denying the news: "speaking with RJR news, Buju's manager Donovan Germaine dismissed the report out of hand. He added that the management team would not comment further on the issue as it was being used by the gay rights group to gain mileage for their cause". Peter Tatchell answer to these allegations was: "We are not sure whether this is a case of misreporting, spin by their management, or a genuine recantation," said Mr Tatchell. "What is absolutely certain is that these artists (Buju Banton and Beenie Man) have signed the Reggae Compassion Act, we have their signatures on the agreement. "The signatures have been authenticated as genuine. "Any attempt to deny that the artists have signed this agreement will just make them look dishonest, duplicitous and downright ridiculous." Mr Tatchell said that the deal had been brokered by reggae promoter Eddie Brown, of Pride Music, who knows the artists and flew to Jamaica to get their written agreement to the Act. "We have total confidence that Eddie Brown has got their signatures," Mr Tatchell said. "The insinuation that Mr Brown or anyone else forged the signatures is a mark of desperation, it reflects very badly on the character of the people making these allegations."

NOTE: It may be possible that Buju Banton signed the Reggae Compassionate Act as early as June 7, as the picture of the document available on PeterTatchell.net have the date 'JUNE 7' written in the title of the JPG picture. But it wouldn't make sense to me that Peter Tatchell would have waited six weeks to write an article on Banton signing the act, unless Tatchell became aware of the signature only in mid July.
(picture of the Reggae Compassionate Act signed by Buju Banton) (The Guardian) (Peter Tatchell) (GayCityNews) (RadioJamaica.com) (PinkNews.co.uk)

August 8, 2007: Talking With Tatchell: 'Jamaica, homophobia and murder music'
Peter Tachell host the weekly program 'Talking With Tatchell' on the Internet television station 18 Doughty Street. On August 8, he made a special on the Stop Murder Music campaign and interviewed Dennis Carney from Black Gay Men's Advisory Group and Brett Lock from OutRage! The half-hour special is entitled: 'Jamaica, homophobia and murder music'. Description posted on the website: 'Is Jamaica is the most homophobic country in the world? Does reggae/dancehall 'murder music' contribute to anti-gay violence? Campaigners Dennis Carney and Brett Lock discuss with Peter Tatchell. Leading Jamaican reggae stars like Buju Banton and Beenie Man sing songs advocating the murder of queers. Are they reflecting Jamaican homophobia or helping to create it? Anti-gay violence is widespread in Jamaica and the government and police are doing little to stop it.'

NOTE: The special last 28 minutes. It worth listening. Story and updates on the Stop Murder Music campaign by the organisations that lauched it. Answering the accusations of wrongly being labeled a 'racist' campaign. Defining 'freedom of speech' and more.
(TV SHOW: Jamaica, homophobia and murder music) (18 Doughty Street)

August 25, 2007: protest at New York's Reggae CariFest
LGBT has protested the performance of Buju Banton and Bounty Killer at the Reggae CariFest concert on Randall’s Island, New York, on August 25. The Reggae Carifest is describe as "an explosion of West Indian exhibitionism" by the promoters, who are "doing our part to break down cultural barriers and to showcase the overwhelming richness of Reggae music and culture". Let's recall that Buju Banton has signed the Reggae Compassionate Act, therefore he should not be bothered to appear on the bill. The LGBT organisation objecting the two artists appearances include: Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), Gay Men of African Descent (GMAD), Queer Justice League, People of Color in Crisis, The National Gay and Lesbian Taskforce and the New York City Anti-Violence Project went as far as to make a call for the artists to be thrown off the bill and have asked Clear Channel to withdraw the sponsorship of its Power 105.1 radio station from the Aug. 25 event. The City Parks Department, which operates Randall's Island, said in a statement yesterday that all performers signed a code of conduct agreeing to refrain from performing anti-gay lyrics at the promoter's request. "This is a city that values the free speech of all artistes, but we also are a city that does not accept intolerance. We are glad that the artistes have agreed to refrain from hateful messages". Buju Banton's microphone was shut off for a few minutes during the concert, when he stated the first sentence of the song 'Boom Bye Bye'.

NOTE: There is also a video montage of several News coverage of the demonstration, available on YouTube (see lower). Plus the excerpt of Buju Banton's perormance being cut off when he sings the first line of 'Boom Bye Bye'.
(One876entertainment) (Jamaica Observer) (VIDEO: protest on the news) (VIDEO: Buju Banton's Mic Shut Off "Accidentally")

September 3, 2007: Bruce Golding of the Jamaica Labour Party is voted Prime Minister
The JLP defeated the People's National Party after eighteen years of unbroken rule. On 3 September 2007, Bruce Golding of the Jamaica Labour Party was voted in as Prime Minister-Designate after achieving a 33 - 27 seat victory over Portia Simpson-Miller and the PNP in the 2007 Jamaican general election. Portia Simpson-Miller conceded defeat on the 5 September 2007. On 11 September 2007, after being sworn in by Governor-General Kenneth Hall, The Hon. Bruce Golding assumed office as Prime Minister of Jamaica. Golding is the nation's eighth prime minister since independence. He was elected leader of the JLP, and also the leader of the opposition, on February 20, 2005, succeeding former leader Edward Seaga. (text from Wikipedia). Two months prior to the elections, Golding clearly stated that he had no intention in removing the Bugery Laws. "Let us be very clear. There are some countries that are prepared to overturn tradition and culture in the interest of what they regard as individual freedoms and to do so at the instance of the homosexual fraternity, which comprises a minority in the population. You will find this pretty prevalent in Europe. We (the JLP) are not prepared to go in that direction," he told the Sunday Observer. "We intend to uphold the laws of the country."
(Jamaica Observer)

NOTE: The Jamaica Observer article also includes interesting analysis coming from two Jamaican psychologists and one sociologist on Jamaican homosexuals becoming more visible.

September 3, 2007: Greensleeves Records is still releasing 'Murder Music'
A double CD compilation named 'From Dubplate To Download' was issued on September 3rd by the UK label Greensleeves Records. Promotional text available on their website: 'This is the ultimate Greensleeves collection that everybody has been waiting for - 'From Dubplate to Download' - this is THE best of Greensleeves Records, celebrating 30 years in business.This collection features 30 tracks, one track from every year of Greensleeves history - 1977 to 2007'. Representing the year 2001 is the violent homophobic song 'Log On' by Elephant Man. Greensleeves is breaking the comitment they have made in February 2005, stating that they would no longer release homophobic songs that advertise violence. (See February 4th, 2005 for more information on the deal between gay rights groups and the dancehall industry).
(Greensleeves.net) (2005 article published in The Guardian)

NOTE: I also found 'Bullet Proof Skin' by Bounty Killer, issued on The Biggest Ragga Dancehall Anthems 2006 issued in November 2006. There is a possibility that such song have been issued on other Greensleeves records, as I don't check their releases. Similarly, I've found out that VP Records, which have agreed on the same deal, is also distributing a compilation name 'Bill Back', issued on May 11 2007. The compilation includes an extremely violent song by Sizzla named 'Head Out'. The compilation, marketed by a label named E.21st Production, is available through VP Records website. On December 18, a 7-inch single for TOK's 'Chi Chi Man' song (from 2000) was advertised on the New Releases list of the reggae store Ernie B, which clearly indicate that these hate songs are still being repress even eight years after they were mass produced. This single was released a label named Loy.

September 14, 2007: Stop Murder Music vs Elephant Man's Canadian Tour
The Stop Murder Music campaign was proven effective in Europe and USA, but very few dancehall concerts were cancelled in Canada since the campaign was launched in July 2004. On September 14, The Working Group of the Canadian Caribbean Human Rights Group (CCHRG) allong with several other Canadian LGBT organisations are asking for government officials to deny Elephant Man's visa for Canada. Elephant Man's Let's Get Physical tour date is scheduled to start on September 21st in Edmonton and will bring performances in thirteen Canadian cities. The artist still haven't signed the Reggae Compassionate Act. The coalition sent an official letter to the mayor and to the chief of police for every cities were Elephant Man is supossed to perform live. Akim Ade Larcher, spokesperson for the Canadian Stop Murder Music address the following concerns: "This incitement of violence and murder offends Canadian law and values. In particular, we would like to highlight Sections 318 and 319 of the Criminal Code which make it a criminal offence to advocate killing members of a group based on their sexual orientation or to publicly incite or promote hatred based on a person’s sexual orientation. In addition, Section 13 of the Canadian Human Rights Act prohibits communication of messages that are likely to expose a person to hatred on the basis of their sexual orientation. Because Elephant Man has become a symbol of pro-gay hatred in Jamaica and elsewhere, his presence in Canada can be perceived as a license to incite violence... The federal and provincial government has a legal obligation to protect the rights of its citizens, especially those who remain vulnerable to stigma, fear, discrimination and hate". Elephant Man got his visa and started his tour as sheduled. Jeff Wuite, Edmonton police spokesman said one the day before Elephant Man started his Canadian tour in Edmonton: "City hate-crimes cops will keep a close eye on Jamaican dancehall artist Elephant Man's show at Gingur Sky Lounge, to see if he breaks the law and incites his fans to go gay-bashing". Larcher said having them promise not to perform their anti-gay songs in Canada isn't good enough. Larcher, a Caribbean immigrant, said that Canadian authorities would never allow someone who advocated the slaughter of racial minorities into the country, even if they promised not to propagate that message here. Elephant Man, acting that this is past history, said in an interview: "What you do in your life is what you do... Those songs are from 10 years ago*. I'm on a different road now, making people enjoy themselves and just dance". Three concerts were cancelled: Toronto, Ontario (September 28), St. Catherines, Ontario (September 29), Ottawa, Ontario (October 4) and Sizzla's performance scheduled in Toronto on October 5th. The St.Catherines concert was re-sheduled at a different club.

NOTE 1*: These songs are not from 10 years ago. Some of them were written in 2001, 2003 and 2004. Although Elephant Man has probably adjust his setlist while performing in Europe and America after the Stop Murder Music campaign was launch in 2004, homophobic songs were still performed in Caribbean. When was the last time Elephant Man performed his homophobic hit songs onstage in the Caribbean, only a fan would be able to answer this one. My guess would be 2005 or 2006. Thinking that hopefully the artist has really moved on.

NOTE 2: On September 28, the promoters that brought Elephant Man to Canada are striking back with a press release fillled with lies. Rahim Risram of Ultimate Entertainment.ca states: "The 13-city tour has been attacked with several twisted reports that have misrepresented the artist... The songs were written in a early stage of Elephant Man's career, he has since realized that all human life is important and he agreed not to perform or record any new anti gay material"... "We always do the proper research on every artist that we choose to tour and we did the same with Elephant Man, realizing that he has already apologized for his actions several times when asked, we decided to support him"... "why so many of our successful balck reggae entertainers are persecuted in this manner?" The only good thing about that press release is that the promoters are inviting reporters to interview Elephant Man about his homophobic songs and where he stands now in the conflict. If you do so, don't forget to challenge him with the Reggae Compassionate Act, and that he must repair the wrong he has done by publicly condemning violence against gays& lesbians and specially in Caribbean interviews.
(Hour Magazine) (Edmonton Sun) (Toronto Star) (National Post) (365Gay.com) (xtra) (Letter to the Ministers) (gaiecoute.org) (Let's Get Physical tour dates)
PRESS RELEASES: (CCHRG No.1) (CCHRG No.2) (Ultimate Entertainment) (Elephant Man Statement)

September 26, 2007: Tjenbé Rèd request the cancellation of Admiral T performances
The french Caribbean LGBT organisation Tjenbé Rèd is requesting the cancellation of the guadeloupean artist Admiral T performances, scheduled at the Bataclan in Paris on November 2 and 3. The organisation recall that Admiral T has never appologized for the murder music he wrote, enumerating five homophobic songs: Makoumé (aka: Brilé Yo, Batty Boy Dead Now) (2001), Gwadada (2003) and Burn Pédofil (2004). In 2006, An Nou Allé requested the withdraw of the prestigious prize he won on October 23, 2006 at les Césaire de la Musique. Today, Tjenbé Rèd along with more than 30 LGBT organisations, call for the cellation of Admiral T upcomming performances in France, Gouadeloupe and in Martinique. The tour will start at Limoges on October 26 and will be finishing in Martinique on December 14, 2007. On October 12, Tjenbé Rèd released statements of political, cultural and economical leaders that voiced their oppinion on Admiral T upcoming tour. On October 17, the concert scheduled for Rouen at Exo 7 was cancelled. On October 30, the concert scheduled at Ramonville-Saint-Agne (near Toulouse) at the Bikini was cancelled. A petition requesting that Admiral T formulate a real apologize for promoting homophobia and requesting that the concert hall drop the artist for his performance scheduled in Paris on November 2 and 3 was made available by Tjenbé Rèd. A demonstration was organized in front of the Batacan on November 2 and 3rd.
(Press Release 1) (Press Release 4) (Press Release 7) (Press Release 12) (PETITION)
(Admiral T Tour) (Tjenbe Red: Admiral T file)

September 28, 2007: Sizzla concert is cancelled in Toronto
Sizzla was sheduled to perform at Toronto's Kool Haus on October 5th. The canadian coalition for the Stop Murder Music campaign was able to make the artist performance being removed from the bill. The concert will go on with Munga and Asher. Sizzla has signed the Reggae Compassionate Act in April 2007, but haven't respect his signature. The Kool Haus apologied for booking Sizzla and Elephant Man. Both artist performances were cancelled on September 28. Elephant Man's performance was scheduled for September 28. Akim Larcher, founder of Stop Murder Music Canada - a coalition made up of 20 organizations that promote human rights - says that the federal government has remained silent.“They shouldn’t have been allowed to get visas to perform in the country. It’s not about censorship or artistic freedom. That stops when hate propaganda is involved... No one should have that platform to speak... There are artists who are profiteering the songs about death and violence against gays and lesbians”. Larcher says the focus of his organization is to bring awareness and support against homophobia in Jamaica. According to Amnesty International, attacks and threats on gays and lesbians in Jamaica are on the rise.
(The Star 1) (CNW Group)(The Star 2) (365Gay.com)

September 29, 2007: Dr. Evil concert is cancelled in Trinidad
In early August, SASOD (Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination) tried to cancelled the performance of Dr. Evil in Guyana. Jamzone Summer Break took place on August 12, 2007, like it was originally planned, with Dr. Evil. But a month and a half later, the artist performance was cancelled in Trinidad. SASOD statement: 'Recently, the Senior Management of the St Augustine Campus of the University of West Indies recently canceled a concert for performer “Dr Evil” which was carded for Saturday, September 29, 2007. The performance was canceled after a number of complaints were issued by members of the University community who protested that Dr Evil's music threatened the human rights to life, liberty, safety and security of person for university students and staff who may be perceived to be gay or lesbian. SASOD applauds the UWI St. Augustine Campus Senior Management for taking a principled and ethical stand against murder and violence and the ignorance and prejudice which breeds bias violence'.
(Stabroek News) (SASOD statement 1) (SASOD statement 2) (LYRICS: J.A. Don't Like Gay)

October 1, 2007: Jahcoozi's song on Jamaican homophobia
Jahcoozi is a trio from Berlin that decided to express themselves on Jamaican homophobia on one of their song: 'Rainbow Coloured Rizzla'. The song is part of their Blitz 'n' Ass album, released on October 1st 2007. Their bio in Wikipedia describe the trio's sound as 'consisting of abstract electronic beats within ragga, hip-hop, blip-hop, re and electronica'. Interview on Stand & Point (Cargo.tv) in April 2008, they discuss the writing of this song, which is available for dowload on Amazon.com and can be listen to on their MySpace website.

NOTE: So far, I found three songs that challenge Jamaican homophobia: Do You Still Care? (by Tanya Stephens, August 2006), Homoriginal (by K2R Riddim) (September 2006) and Rainbow Coloured Rizzla (by Jahcoozi) (October 2007). If you know any others, let me know: irieites72@yahoo.ca

There is also one song that I suspect to be addressing the conflict, at least partly: Lock It Down (by Freddie McGregor) (May 2005).
(Listen to: Rainbow Coloured Rizzla) (YouTube interview) (Lyics) (official website)

October 2, 2007: Elephant Man's press conference to sign the RCA is cancelled
Facing several protest and very bad newspaper coverage during his Canadian Tour, Elephant Man finally agreed to signed the Reggae Compassionate Act, but the press conference was cancelled at the last minute as the Canadian coalition for the Stop Murder Music campaign refused acnowkledge the signature if it wasn't done in Jamaica. This condition as been express by the Canadian. The press conference for Elephant Man signing the act was initially organised by the Carlton University Students' Association (CUSA) and would have take place on the university campus on October 3rd. The association was responsible for bringing Elephant Man at Ottawa's Captial City Music Hall on October 4th. The show and the press conference were cancelled on October 2nd. According to Akim Larcher, spokesman for the Stop Murder Music campaign in Canada, signing the act outside of Elephant Man’s homeland, Jamaica would “not be worth the paper it’s signed on.”“It has to be [signed] in a Jamaican context,” he said. Larcher said that in the past, other artists, such as Beenie Man, signed the Reggae Compassionate Act outside of Jamaica only to later claim their signatures were forged. He said he believes Elephant Man would do the same thing, even if he signed the document publicly. Shelley Melanson, CUSA president said she disagreed. “We were planning to have all major media sources [at the press conference],” she said, and added there would be no way for Elephant Man to deny it afterwards. “He wanted to do this,” said Maynes. Larcher said he also felt CUSA rushed its decision to have the artist sign the act, and were not within their right to do so, as they did not contact members of the GLBT community of Jamaica. Maynes fired back. “They say it has to be signed in a Jamaican context, but what about a Caribbean context, and the rest of the world?” he said. An chance to combat homophobia, said Maynes, has now been wasted. “To have someone come out and actually say that being homophobic is wrong would have been a great opportunity,” he said. But the SMM remained steadfast in its stance. The 'Stop Murder Music' campaign is effective in several countries. Akim Larcher insist that the Canadian coalition is the only one that have requested the RCA to be signed in a Caribbean context, followed by a press conference. "As it stands OutRage!, BGMAG and J-FLAG have not changed their positions and have not requested that the RCA be signed in Jamaica".
(The Charlatan) (Xtra 1) (Xtra 2) (Ottawa Citizen)

October 24, 2007: Jamaican lesbian on The Oprah Winfrey Show
Staceyann Chin, a young Jamaican lesbian activist that lives in New York was invited on The Oprah Winfrey Show. She was interviewed on October 24 for a special named: 'What is it like to be gay around the world'. The promotion text for that show ran as: 'The Oprah Winfrey Show travels the globe for a look into the lives of gays and lesbians in the U.S. and worldwide. Go behind the headlines to see the secret lives of gays in Iran. Meet an Indian prince whose coming out caused a controversy in his homeland. Plus, meet inspiring gay couples and families from around the world'.

NOTE: Take 9 minutes to watch this very nice and intelligent interview. Staceyann Chin can also be seen on the News at the Reggae Carifest (see upper on August 25, 2007)
(VIDEO: The Oprah Winfrey Show)

October 27, 2007: Buju Banton sings part of 'Boom Bye Bye' at Guyana Music Festival
Buju Banton was the headliner of the much anticipated first Annual Guyana Music Festival. The promoter of the event, GT Entertainment group, have committed to ensuring that Guyana Music Festival is not discriminatory to any Guyanese citizen. In a public statement, SASOD, a guyanese LGBT, question the choice of the promoters to include Banton as an headliner and requested that Banton publicly condem violence made to gays and lesbians before behing allowed to perform at the festival. Three months after signing the Reggae Compassionate Act, Buju Banton showed that he had no intention to put his homophobic past behind him. The Guyanese newspaper Stabroek writes: 'But the night certainly belonged to the dreadlocked, still very much homophobic Jamaican dancehall star, who had no apologies for his discriminatory lyrics lashing the gay community. "Buju nah like no batty boy and dem batty boy attack Buju", the singer said to an adulating audience who seemed to have been waiting for that exact moment. And perhaps feeling the vibes of the embracing crowd and the urge to sing his controversial song, 'Boom Bye Bye', the singer belted out a few of the lyrics nearing the close of his performance. But Buju was not the only performer to have walked that line. When Peter Tatchell was interviewed by UK Newspaper The Voice, "We offered Buju Banton a deal. We agreed to call off our campaign if he agreed to stop performing songs advocating killing gay people. Buju has now broken this agreement so we will be consulting with our human rights allies in Jamaica and throughout the Caribbean. I suspect they will want to resume the campaign. Most black and gay and human rights groups will now insist there is a world wide boycott of him."

(Stabroek News 1) (The Voice)
(SASOD statement) (Buju Banton management letter: answer to SASOD) (Stabroek News 2)
NOTE: On October 21, the Guyanese Newspaper Stabroek was publishing an open letter from Buju Banton management company, saying how Buju Banton has moved on since he wrote 'Boom Bye Bye' and how great he is as a citizen. Tracii McGregor omitted to talk about his trial for beating up gays in June 2004. He was found not guilty, for lack of evidence in January 2006. Let's pretend that Banton was not guilty, than why did he covered Peter Tosh song 'Them A Fi Get A Beaten' in May 2005, in the middle of his process? A statement that speaks for itself. By the way, the original Peter Tosh song has nothing to do with gay bashing. If Banton is so great for humanity, why did he denied signing the RCA, a contract that state 'there is no place in music for racism, violence, sexism or homophobia'. If Banton is so tired of the violence in Jamaica, (reference to his hit duet with Anthony Cruz 'Too Bloody') why doesn't he condom homophobic violence, a logic step after all the hatered and violence his song 'Boom Bye Bye' has caused? This song is not just a hit song, it has become an anthem to homophobic violence everywhere in the Caribbean. The reaction of the crowd at the Guyana Music Festival is a testimony to that statement. It is extremely sad to realized that even after all the efforts that are made by all the people involved with the RCA, Banton has no real intention to moved on with this conflict. He made it a personal and egocentric battle to never admit that he have done something wrong by writing and performing this song. Violence against any community is unacceptable, whatever your beliefs are. Adopting an unmature attitude like that, he will have LGBT on his back for the rest of his career. If you are a fan of his music and happen to be in a city where his concert was (or will be) cancelled, don't be pissed off at LGBT organisations. The only one you should be pissed off at is the artist himself for refusing to moved on when several opportunities were offered to him. These organisations work very hard daily to ensure that EVERY human beings have the rights to live without fear, discrimination or violence. Even if Buju Banton has written some conscious songs and done some great things with his career, he has become and chose to remains a symbol of anti-gay violence in the Caribbean and around the world.

October 27, 2007: Kiprich sang out against the gay community at Guyana Music Festival
Not only Buju Banton used the stage of Guyana Music Festival to promote hatered against gays and lesbians on October 27. Another Jamaican dancehall singer named Kiprich, who is known for his hit song 'Telephone Ting', made nasty comments about gay people while performing. The Guyana newspaper Stabroek wrote: "Kiprich, another Jamaican star who appeared much earlier in the night also sang out against the gay community and the audience largely enjoyed it".
(Stabroek News)





Reggae Compassionate Act
(click here to see the difference between VERSION 1 and VERSION 2)

November 17, 2007: Baby Cham incites violence against gays while performing in Guyana
Baby Cham performed at the National Park in front of 12 000 people in Georgetown, Guyana on November 17. According to an open letter written in December 2007, SASOD (Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination) pointed out that Baby Cham sang homophobic songs during the evening. Unfortunately no articles that review the concert could be located on the Internet. Prior to the event, the guyanese gay & lesbian organisation has requested that the promoter make shure that the artist's performance whould be free of discrimination. In the same letter, SASOD writes: "we have long recommended that preventative measures and sanctions be put in place to achieve this end. In a request dated December 2, 2005, to the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), SASOD recommended that any licences granted for the use of state-owned venues include clearly-written provisions prohibiting lyrics which promote hatred, violence and murder against any section of the population, including LGBT citizens and that stringent sanctions, which may include fines and custodial sentences, are meted out to performers and promoters who breach the terms of the agreement. To date, the Commission (which is the body mandated to "encourage and create respect for religious, cultural and other forms of diversity in a plural society" under Article 212D, paragraph (f) of the Guyana Constitution) has failed to effectively address these concerns. Similarly, official silence in response to anti-gay, hyper-violent lyrics performed by Buju Banton and Baby Cham in Guyana recently indicates apathy on the part of the state in protecting all Guyanese citizens from violence.
(SASOD letter published in Stabroek News 1) (SASOD letter published in Stabroek News 2)

November 22, 2007: Elephant Man signs the Reggae Compassionate Act
This news was never publicised, but Elephant Man signed the Reggae Compassionate Act in November 2007, probably on November 22, 2007. A copy of the document was posted on Peter Tatchell website only in 2009.

NOTE: It's only on 23 months later (October 25, 2009) that I learned about the document being signed by Elephant Man, by visiting Peter Tatchell website. At first, I tought it was a new document signed in Autumn 2009, As I only visit Peter Tatchell website a few times a year, in might have be there since Spring 2009. By making a research on the net, I coundn't find any article that talk about the signature.... then in January 2010, by mistake, I found an email exchange between an European promoter and a LGBT group posted on a forum. The conversation, which took place on November 22, 2007, included a copy of the signed document. Why Elephant Man's signature was never publicised? My theory: probably because it felt at a bad timing, after Bennie Man, Sizzla, Capleton and Banton all publicly denied singing the Act. I remember that the document authenticity was questioned if it wasn't signed with eye witneses. It was also mentionned that it should be signed in a press conference in order to be considered valid. Those two conditions were not met with Elephant Man's document. During the same period, a second version of the RCA was also made available, so why not use it? Elephant Man did not respect his signature, see March 26, 2008 for the video 'Our Word', where he promote (again) violence to the gay community.
(Reggae Compassionate Act signed by Elephant Man)

November 22, 2007: Baby Cham, Beenie Man and Capleton removed from concerts in Canada
Three acts know for their anti-gay lyrics were removed in three different upcoming concerts in Canada. The three concerts will still go on, but without them. Capleton was supposed to perform in Woodbridge on November 24, Beenie Man was supposed to performed in Waterloo on December 7 and Baby Cham was supposed to performed at Toronto's Sound Academy on December 8. "All three are gone," says Helen Kennedy, the executive director of queer lobby group Egale Canada, a member of SMM. "None of the artists who violate our criminal code will perform, which is good news. Our objective is to raise the awareness of the human rights violations when these artists come to this country." The canadian coalition for Stop Murder Music campaign met with the promoters of the Baby Cham and Beenie Man shows and demanded the artists publicly sign — in Jamaica — the Reggae Compassion Act, a contract in which the artist apologizes for writing and performing homophobic songs and pledges not to perform them any more. Kennedy says she thinks the artists probably didn't take well to the demand as there was no follow back to the request.
(Xtra) (EGALE CANADA: Open Letter to Minister of Citizenship)

December 4, 2007: Jamaica bans school books that mention gays favorably
Jamaica's Ministry of Education has ordered a ban on any book that mentions homosexuality in a favorable light. The directive followed a decision to remove a book on home economics that has a four sentence mention of families headed by same-sex partners. "It is unfortunate that four sentences on page four in the text under the sub-heading family forms, were used to label the total text as a gay book; we are very angry about that because that was not the intention," author Rita Dyer told the Caribbean Media Corporation. "It says there is much discussion about what constitutes a family, there seems to be a broadening of a traditional definition of a family structure and when two men or women live together in a relationship as lesbians or gay they may be considered as a family; they may adopt children or have them through artificial means," Dyer said. Education Minister Andrew Holness has issued a warning to all schools instructing them to submit to the government any book they were uncertain about. Holness said that schools would be held accountable for breaches of regulations governing the use of textbooks.
(365gay) (Jamaica Gleaner)

December 13, 2007: City votes for 'murder music' ban
Venues in Brighton and Hove which allow musicians or other acts to incite violence face losing their licences. The city council has approved a policy to prevent pubs and clubs allowing so-called "murder music" that incites hatred against gay people. The move was prompted after protests from the gay community led to a concert by Jamaican artist Buju Banton being cancelled at Concorde 2 last year. MORE ON THE LINK BELOW
(BBC News) (Outaroad.com) (PRESS RELEASE 2004: Brighton & Hove Council) (PRESS RELEASE 2006: Brighton & Hove Council) (Transsexual Testimony)

December 14, 2007: Ras Frazer 'bun' battyman at Jamaica's Guiness Sting Road Show
Even if they were informed that indecent language would not be tolerated onstage, Ras Frazer and a new artist express their desire to kill homosexuals during their performances. This occured at one of the Sting Road Show in Portmore, Jamaica, on December 14, prior to the main concert, sheduled for December 26. The identity of the second signer wasn't revealed in the article... (NOTE: was it intentionally, in order no to mess up his career?) The article describe the incident as follow: 'After Ras Frazer had asked the crowd for support "from yu a bun battyman an' sodoweak" at the Sting Road Show outside Ken's Wildflower Lounge, Port Henderson Road, Portmore, early Saturday morning, his brief performance did not last much longer. And there was a tussle with a member of the Supreme Promotions team, organisers of Sting, after the microphone was snatched from his hand when he walked to the back of the stage... However, the next performer, another in a slew of younger artistes for the road show, after deejaying that "inna de ghetto we grow, suffaration we know", declared his desire to "shot some battyboy"... "Dem no put my face fe go pon poster fe go Sting," he said. When he finished, instead of exiting at the back of the stage he stepped off the front and walked briskly through the audience and out of the venue.
(Jamaica Gleaner)

December 25, 2007: Capleton homophobic performance
On December 25 2007, while performing at Magnum GT Taylor Christmas Extravaganza (Black River, Jamaica), Capleton sang the homophobic song 'Fire Time' and promoted violence agaisnt gays and lesbians with sentences like 'Battyman fi dead di yuth em right bout that'. By doing so, he breakes his signature of the Reggae Compassionate Act, an official document that he signed in May 2007 in order to move on with his violent homophobic past and be able to tour in Europe. By promoting violence towards gays and lesbians onsatge in Jamaica, the artist proves that his signature of the RCA was a fluke and was done strictly for financial purpose. Video Proofs were found on YouTube by Stop Murder Music Bern in October 2008. (see October 28, 2008 for more details)
(YouTube – clip of the concert) (Transcript Of The YouTube segment)

December 26, 2007: Several more artists 'bun' gays at the final Guiness Sting concert
The guideline for the 2007 Guiness Sting concert was to make it the 'cleanest' Sting ever.The musicians have been warned: all profanities would be cut off and the artists that would break the rules would not get the rest of their pay check.What was suppose to be a 'clean' concert eventually turned out to be a disaster when the majority of the musicians that took the stage that night expressed their disaproval with homosexuality with violent lyrics and sometimes advocating the murder of gays and lesbians. The event took place at Jamworld Entertainment Center in Portmore, Jamaica on Boxing Day. According to the article published in the Jamaica Star, Harry Toddler was the first singer to start the profanities. 'Harry Toddler demanded just after 1 a.m. that "all who a shot ban tun on yu lighta", some strong language in the mix, he was quickly called off stage'. Then the MC reminded to the crowd and the remaining artists the rules of the sponsored event. It seems that every artist that performed after took the freelance to express themselves in a negative way towards gays and lesbians: Mikey Pelpa, Vybz Kartel, Bounty Killer, Fantan Mojah, Warrior King, Bodyguard, Lutan Fyah and Chuck Fendah. 'Assassin (the group) showed his scorn, but did not advocate death. Queen Ifrica and Turbulence expressed dispproval of homosexuality without the lyrically deadly component'.
(Jamaica Star 1) (Jamaica Gleaner) (Jamaica Star 2)

NOTE: Sounds like several artists don't feel like touring Americia and Europe in 2008. They clearly states that they are not willing to respect a contract. I hope that American and European promoters will remember this specific evening when it's time to make their choices for the upcoming outdoor festivals. As a music fan, If you are tired of this unrespectful and unmature attitude, I strongly suggest that you go back to the roots of reggae. Here is a short list of true Jamaican pionneers that craft reggae music: Bob Marley, Burning Spear, U Roy, Third World, Israel Vibration, Culture, The Itals, Dennis Brown, The Heptones, Junior Murvin, Peter Tosh, Gregory Isaacs, Toots & The Maytals.

January 13, 2008: Lutan Fyah use stage performance to make anti-homosexual comments
January 13 marked the 15th edition of the Rebel Salute concert, one of the most popular event in Jamaica. The concert raised a crowed of 10 000 reggae fans in Manchester. The lineup included: Leroy Gibbons, Louis Culture, E'tana, Queen Ifrika, Ernie Smith and Pluto Shervington, Chalice, Ini Kamoze, I-Wayne, Lutan Fyah, Richie Spice, Tarrus Riley, Capleton, Busy Signal, Sugar Minott, Jah Cure, Luciano. Lutan Fyah, who was described by the Jamaica Observer as 'another star is in their midst', seem to have been one of the hilight of the evening. He unfortunatly used his performance to make anti-homosexual comments. "Jamaica needs a positive vibe at this juncture. Only music can turn back the crime wave. The people sing the songs line for line and it is the only thing they can quote in their lifestyles," Lutan Fyah told Splash during an interview. Two weeks before, the Jamaica Star reported the same kind of behaviour onstage at Sting 2007, when 'Lutan Fyah put a lyrical bullet on a funny guy (homosexual)'.

NOTE: Obviously the singer is unable to acknoledge the fact that anti-homosexual comments contribute to the crime rate. As he point it out 'people sing the songs line for line and it is the only thing they can quote in their lifestyles'. Every Jamaican knows that Bobo Shanti don't approve homosexuality. He shurly doesn't need to put any emphasis on this during his concerts, specially if he is challenging crimes in Jamaica.
(Jamaica Observer 1) (Jamaica Observer 2) (Jamaica Star) (YardFlex)

January 28, 2008: Monopoly in Reggae/Dancehall: VP Records purchase Greensleeves Records
VP Records, the world's leading reggae record company, has announced today that it has made an offer to purchase Greensleeves Records & Publishing from Zest Group plc, subject to the approval of Zest's shareholders. Music publisher Zest Group PLC has accepted VP Records purchase offer and has agreed to sell reggae label Greensleeves Group to VP Records (UK) Ltd for 6.13 million dollars (approximatively 4 millions euros), because initiatives at Greensleeves have not produced expected returns. VP Records will inherit a catalogue comprised of some of the most notable albums of the genre, from Elephant Man to Yellowman and hit songs recorded by such acts as Rihanna, Sean Paul and Shaggy. Chris Chin and Randy Chin, respectively Chief Executive Officer and President of VP Records, further added: "Although Greensleeves has historically been our competitor, we have always had the utmost respect for what Greensleeves stood for. The label and its founders had a long term commitment to Reggae music and no one is better positioned than VP Records to understand the need to respect this legacy. We will ensure that Greensleeves remains alive as a brand synonymous with excellence in Reggae and Dancehall music." Olivier Chastan, Vice President of VP Records, concluded: "The addition of Greensleeves to our catalog will ensure that the genre remains an important category in music". Greensleeves is the world's largest reggae publisher, selling reggae hits in the US, Japan, France, Germany, Benelux, Canada and Scandinavia. The label's back catalogue includes 400 albums and 900 singles. According to another article, the deal occured officially occured in February 2008. NOTE: I'm not fully sure, but it seems that Jet Star Records (based in UK), the third largest company in the newest reggae/Dancehall genre is no longer existing. Their website is no longer in operation and they haven't released their biggest selling compilation 'Reggae Hits' in 2008, a compilation that is usually released in Automn. Their last released (Reggae Hits Volume 37) was issued in October 2007. VP Records getting the monopoly in reggae business? Yes indeed... A major disapointment for true reggae lovers.

(Big Up Radio) (United Reggae) (VP Records) (Jamaica Gleaner) (NOVEMBER 2008: Jamaica Observer)
(Wikipedia article on VP) (Wikipedia article on Greensleeves)

ADDITIONAL INFO: On February 1st 2008, VP launched PlanetReggae.com (see below, on February 1st 2008 for more info). On May 1st 2008, VP Records launched the 17 North Parade label, in order to release compilations of 'Old School' reggae music coming from the combination of the Greensleeves and VP catalogues. 'Reggae Anthology: The Sweet Sound of Cocoa Tea' seems to be the first compilation issued on the label. It's interesting to notice that the Cocoa Tea compilation was issued on March 11, six weeks before VP 'officially' lauched the label. The news published on VP Records website is dated May 1st. All the previous titles from the 'Reggae Anthology' collection are part of the VP regular catalogue. (17 North Parade)

January 29, 2008: Three gay men brutally attack by angry mob
Mandeville, Jamaica. Andre and some friends were finishing dinner when a mob showed up at the front gate. Yelling antigay slurs and waving machetes, sticks and knives, 15 to 20 men kicked in the front door of the home he and his friends had rented and set upon them. “I thought I was dead,” Andre, 20, a student, recounted in a faint voice, still scared enough that he was in hiding and did not want his full name to be used. The mob pummeled him senseless. His right hand, the one he used to shield himself from the blows, is now covered with bandages. His skull has deep cut marks and his ear was sliced in half, horizontally. Doctors managed to sew it back together and he can hear out of it again. Being gay in Jamaica is not easy. For years, human rights groups have denounced the harassment... MORE ON THE LINK BELOW.
(New York Times) (PinkNews) (Human Rights Watch) (BET.com) (rod 2.0)

February 1, 2008: VP Records launches PlanetReggae.com... which includes a vast selection of 'Murder Music'
TEXT FROM ARTICLE: VP Records, dubbed the world’s leading reggae record company, has launched planetreggae.com, an online music store selling MP3s, music videos and ringtones. Along with it an affiliate programme, which allows anyone to set up, a co-branded planetreggae.com store and make 10% on each item sale.The online music store will have VP Records digital reggae music catalogue including music from Channel One, Joe Gibbs, Penthouse Productions, Techniques, Dynamic Recordings and King Jammy to name a few. It sells single track for US$.99,full album downloads for US$9.99 and videos for US$1.99, ring tone prices though yet not finalized are likely to be sold for US$1.99. Additionally, the planetreggae online music store will accept Paypal and all major credit card and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard). If you sign on as an affiliate, you will receive monthly statements but will be paid your money quarterly to coincide with artist royalty payments. VP Records, headed Chris Chin and Randy Chin, was in the news this week when the company made an offer to buy Greensleeves Records & Publishing from Zest Group plc, subject to the approval of Zest’s shareholders. If the sale is approved, then VP Records will inherit a catalogue comprising some of the most notable albums of the genre, from Elephant Man to Yellowman and hit songs recorded by such acts as Rihanna, Sean Paul and Shaggy. The online store was already active (since 2007?) on VP Records regular website, but became officily known as 'PlanetReggae' in February 2008.
(SiliconCaribe) (PlanetReggae.com)

NOTE: In July 2009 (at time of writing these lines), I made a quick search and found out that the store offers the majority (if not all) of the songs that promote violence and killing of gays released by VP Records over the label 30 years of activity. During that search, I found the following songs for sale: Boom Bye Bye (by Buju Banton), Bun Out The Chi Chi (by Capleton), Log On (by Elephant Man), Killa Is A Killa (by Bounty Killer), Head Out (by Sizzla), Gunz Like Mine (by Vybz Kartel), Chi Chi Man (by T.O.K.) Interesting fact: the songs Damm!!, Roll Deep and Victory (Chi Chi Man Fi Dead) by Beenie Man doesn't seems to be available on PlanetReggae.com! Did Beenie Man management opposed to the re-release of these songs? A deeper research could confirm that some (or all) the Beenie Man songs that advocate violence against gays are not available on this site.

February 7, 2008: Free Speech in Popular Music to be Discussed at Forum
An emerging media entity on the Caribbean/New York landscape, ZYNC-TV, will examine the boundaries of free speech in today's popular music culture, at a specially arranged forum at the Grand Army Plaza branch of the Brooklyn Public Library (Eastern Parkway/Flatbush Avenue), in central Brooklyn, on February 7, beginning at 5:30 p.m. "A number of today's artistes are beginning to feel the pressure of censorship because their lyrics speak out against certain lifestyles and concert promoters now run the risk of having to cancel events or make considerable adjustments to their line-ups for fear of boycott, demonstration and rejection," Eion Saunders, co-producer of ZYNC-TV and the forum's convenor told JIS News. The forum will draw on a number of key resource persons and personalities from the music industry, academia and the Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual & Transgender (GLBT) communities..... MORE ON THE LINK BELOW.
(Jamaican Information Service) (Jamaicans.com 1) (Jamaicans.com 2)

February 14, 2008: J-FLAG co-charing member seeking asylum in Canada
Jamaican queer activist Gareth Henry was friends with 13 people murdered since 2004 just because they were gay. The bodies of three of them have never been found. So it's not surprising that Henry - until recently the cochair of the Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, Allsexuals and Gays (JFLAG) and now a refugee claimant in Canada - breaks down when talking about the death of his coworker and one-time roommate Steve Harvey in 2005. "It was a Tuesday night," he says. "We finished a meeting about 11 o'clock. We went our separate ways. I was called at about two in the night and told Steve was brought home by four men and the four men said to his housemates and his partner, 'We're going to kill Steve because he's gay.' They left with Steve.... MORE ON THE LINK BELOW.
(X-Tra) (Rod 2.0) (YardFlex)

February 24, 2008: Gay Jamaican cop comes out and seeks asylum in Canada
A couple of weeks back, a local tabloid, The Jamaica Star, ran a screaming headline when a local police officer, disturbed by the attack on the dinner party guests, decided to disclose his sexual orientation to the paper. He said he had been harassed regularly by his colleagues because he is gay. He said the police did not take violence against gays seriously. “Jamaica’s motto is ‘Out of Many, One People,’ and I say, ‘What about us?’ ” said the police officer, Michael Hayden. Mr. Hayden, who has since taken leave from the force, is in hiding out of fear that his colleagues might kill him.... MORE ON THE LINK BELOW.
(The Star) (New York Times) (Toronto Star) (Rod 2.0)

NOTE: See September 26 2008 for an interview with Michael Hayden.

February 24, 2008: The Gleaner: Dancehall's betrayal of reggae
Interesting article written by Ian Boyne, published in The Jamaica Gleaner on February 24. 'Music which lionises shottas and badmen who are a terror to poor people is not good. Music which encourages violence for the slightest dissing; music which preaches a message of death to homosexuals or any group is not a good thing; music which encourages "gal inna bungle" is not a good thing because of its effects on our sisters and even on our brothers. Music which makes poor people feel small because they can't bling out is not good. This has nothing to do with 'middle-class values'. In fact, the UWI academics and my colleagues at TVJ don't live in the inner cities. They can glorify dancehall music from their ivory towers and television studios but the poor, defenceless ghetto people who have nowhere to hide and no friend in high society have to contend with the gunshots and the mayhem - not created by dancehall but certainly not helped by it'.
(The Gleaner)
SIMILAR ARTICLE: No to 'Kill people' music
SIMILAR ARTICLE: A collapse into chaos? The dancehallisation of Jamaica
SIMILAR ARTICLE: Clean up your act! Dancehall DJs urged to be professionals

February 29, 2008: Toronto public forum: The Sound Of Hate
Canadians should consider a tourism boycott to pressure Caribbean governments to protect the human rights of their gay citizenry, said participants in a University of Toronto forum Friday evening. About 200 people attended the two-hour discussion, The Sound of Hate: Where Sexual Orientation, Race, Dancehall Music and Human Rights Collide. The debate focused on a popular segment of reggae that gay rights activists have dubbed "murder music," because it contains threatening sentiments toward homosexuals and pejorative patois terms for them..... MORE ON THE LINK BELOW.
(Toronto Star) (Xtra)

March 2, 2008: Tourist boycott to Jamaica? – Not the appropriate response says J-FLAG
In a statement released yesterday (March 2), J-FLAG, Jamaica's Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays, said it shared the frustration at the "slow progress towards transforming the social climate that makes it difficult for gays and lesbians in Jamaica to lead lives free from homophobic violence. "Yet, because of the possible repercussions of increased homophobic violence against our already besieged community, we feel that a tourist boycott is not the most appropriate response at this time. "In our battle to win hearts and minds, we do not wish to be perceived as taking food off the plate of those who are already impoverished. ..... MORE ON THE LINK BELOW.
(Pink News) (Rod 2.0)

March 17, 2008: Canadian music retail stores vs 'Murder Music'
In late January, Eagle Canada along with Stop Murder Music (Canada) contacted the Canadian music industry to request that they withdraw the sale of music that advertised violence to the gay and lesbian community. The people that were conatcted: Humphrey Kadaner (president of HMV Canada), Peter Lowe (director of marketting at Apple Canada) and Pierre Marchand (president of Archambault Musique). The first two companies relplied, but Archambault has still not open any dialogue on the matter. On March 17, a second draft of letters were sent to the same companies (see copies of these letters lower). On March 27, similar letters were sent to Amazon and it's affiliated Canada Post.
(iTunes Canada letter 2) (HMV Canada letter 2) (Archambault letter 2) (Amazon.ca letter) (Canada Post letter)

March 20, 2008: Jamaican boycott to be launch on May 17
Egale Canada sent a letter to to the Jamaican consulate in Canada requesting among several things, that the government denounce the homophobic violence in Jamaica, the instauration of a National homophobia/transphobia Education campaign and the repealing of Buggery Laws that further stigmatize, discriminate and criminalize consensual same sex acts. If by May 12, the Jamaican government hasn't sent an official response, that establish a plan to move forward with the requests, Egale Canada will launch a Canadian tourism boycott to Jamaica and the boycott of goods and services from Jamaica. The boycott will be launched on May 17, which is the International Day Against Homophobia.
(Egale Canada) (Hour) (YardFlex)

March 24, 2008: An association named 'Stop Murder Music Bern' is created in Switzerland
Contrary to the other associations that works under the banner 'Stop Murder Music', the one located in Bern (Switzerland) was created by heterosexuals! They are four reggae fans that are active in the local alternative reggae scene. Tom from Stop Murder Music Bern: “We started our group in March 2008 because of a homophobic incident with "Dubversive Soundsystem" from Zurich, Switzerland, during a reggae-dancehall-party in March 2008. The organizer, a Somali living in Switzerland since some years, and a small non-commercial Dancehall-Reggae-Party-Organizer, was shocked about the homophobic arrogance of DS (‘Dubversive Soundsystem’ – that's racism against gays and lesbians) and asked some of his friends to help fighting against "Killerqueens" (artists that promote violence against LGBT) and homophobic turntables. We developped our own Manifest that people can support, and campagned against concerts of Sizzla, Capleton*, Vybz Kartel, Anthony B and Junior Reid. Our main targets are not only concerts but also a probably bigger problem, the local soundsystems". In October 2008, their group was joined by a gay activist. A month later, two Rocksteady-Reggae-Soul DJs showed interest in joining their team. (MORE FROM THE INTERVIEW BELOW)

NOTE: *Capleton's Basel (Switzerland) concert was cancelled in November 2008.
(complete interview with SMM Bern) (Stop Murder Music Bern)

March 25, 2008: Bounty Killer European Tour: 5 concerts cancelled
On March 23, Bounty Killer started his European Tour in London at the Stratford Rex after having fis first two concerts cancelled in UK. The tour tentatively brings him in Holland, Germany, Italy, Belgium, France, Switzerland and UK. The Jamaican artist that is target by the 'Stop Murder Music' still haven't signed the Reggae Compassionate Act. So far, five concerts have been cancelled: Bradford (UK), Birmingham (UK), Essen (Germany), Antwerpen (Belgium) and Berlin (Germany). "Bounty Killer has performed murder music songs and has ridiculed other singers who have agreed to halt their encouragement of queer-bashing attacks," said Peter Tatchell, who coordinated the British concert cancellation campaign with his colleague David Allison. "Bounty Killer bragged that he was invincible. He vowed his concerts would go ahead and boasted that no gays could stop him... There must be zero tolerance of singers like Bounty Killer who advocate the murder of other human beings". A recent report made by Germany's Lesbian and Gay Federation LSVD sate that the Dortmund concert was cancelled (are they refering to Berlin's April 9th concert?), but the Munich concert went as planned on March 28. LSVD: "Germany’s Ministry of the Interior issued a ban on March 27, prohibiting Bounty Killer from entering the country. Unfortunately, at the time of the ban, Bounty Killer was already in the Netherlands, and the lack of border controls between Schengen countries meant he was able to enter the country unhindered. It is not normally a problem for the Bavarian police to pick up unwanted guests and escort them smartly to whatever frontier is appropriate – often via a holding cell at Munich airport. But not in this case. The Bavarian government allowed the concert to go ahead. The only “concession” was to have police present at the event, to intervene and stop the concert if the singer presented his homophobic songs on stage. Yet, as emerged in today’s press reports (March 31), the singer used the term “Battyboy” several times without intervention from the police". See NOTE lower for unconfirmed details.
(UK Gay News) (PinkNews) (The Guardian) (BGay.com) (Reggae.FR) (YardFlex) (Bounty Killer European Tour Dates) (Jamaica Star)

NOTE: I wasn't able to find the UK dates that the news source is refering to. Someone told me on March 27 that Bounty Killer's visa has been revoked and he has been deemed persona non grata to the Schengen countries*. It has not been confirmed yet, but apparently a number of his concerts have been cancelled. I think Germany is leading this one.

*The Schengen countries include: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Italy, Greece, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Sweden.

March 26, 2008: Elephant Man promote violence towards gays in 'Our World' video
Elephant Man has a new album coming on April 8: 'Let's Get Physical'. In order to promote the album, a videoclip was made for the song 'Our World'. The video promote extreme violence toward gay people. That clearly shows that Elephant Man signature of the Reggae Compassionate Act in November 2007 was just a gimmick to make his North American and European concerts. Robert Burnett describing the videoclip: "And so the anti-gay violence continues, and dancehall artists like Elephant Man continue to fuel the fire. Fab Montreal reggae critic Erin MacLeod called me up one day to discuss the video for Elephant Man's 2008 hit song 'Our World' which features one character using a cleaver to sever a man's head."As he chops," MacLeod notes in her Pitchfork review, "the victim transforms into a fish [and] 'fish' happens to be a [patois] slang term for 'gay man.'" (see link below)

NOTE: I can't believe that any video channels can even think of playing that video... and apparently this was a hit song. Totally sick. What are Governments doing allowing these people a Visa to perform in our countries?
(OttawaXpress) ('Our World' videoclip) (Lyrics of the song)

April 4, 2008: Red Stripe pulls the plug on sponsoring music concert
In a bold and possibly controversial move, brewing company Red Stripe has announced its decision to withdraw sponsorship of live music events which its says facilitate "violent and anti-social lyrics". In a statement issued yesterday, the company said that its main sponsorship beneficiaries, the annual Reggae Summerfest and Sting stage shows will no longer have its support. "Over the years, however, a very negative trend of glorifying violence has crept into some of the music, causing much consternation among well thinking Jamaicans and others at home and abroad. This has far-reaching and damaging implications for the industry and for the country as a whole," the release stated. MORE BELOW
(Jamaica Star) (Jamaica Gleaner 1) (Jamaica Gleaner 2)

April 7, 2008: iTunes Canada remove 'Murder Music' from it's online store
In response to calls from Egale Canada and Stop Murder Music (Canada), iTunes has removed controversial murder music from its North American markets. Anti-gay tracks by popular dancehall artists Buju Banton, Elephant Man and T.O.K are no longer available on the iTunes site. “This is an historic victory for the LGBT community here in Canada and in the Caribbean,” says Akim Larcher founder of SMM (Canada), “iTunes is exercising its corporate responsibility by pulling this murder music and raising the bar for other retailers and distributors to do the same.” The decision comes as a result of calls from Egale Canada and SMM requesting the removal of lyrical content which openly calls for the violence and murder of gays and lesbians. “We are extremely pleased with this decision,” said Helen Kennedy, Executive Director of Egale Canada, “we have also contacted HMV, Archambault Inc, and Amazon.ca and we are optimistic that they will follow iTunes lead.” iTunes has removed entire albums including compilation albums which contain the artists in question.
(Egale Canada)

April 16, 2008: New York WNYC Radio podcast: 'The Future Of Dancehall?'
On April 16, New York's radio station WNYC (93,9 FM), broadcasted a 9-minutes report by Jonah Engle entitled 'The Future Of Dancehall?' on their morning show. The report features interview with Staceyann Chin (a Jamaican lesbian activist that lives in New York), Elena Oumano (leading journalist writing on Jamaican music), Tracii McGregor (Buju Banton Management), Roy Walters (NY radio DJ for IRIE JAM 93.5 FM).The podcast introduction text: 'For several years, activists in the UK have waged a campaign against homophobic songs in dancehall, a modern form of Reggae. Now the campaign is growing in North America. Concerts are being picketed and iTunes Canada recently announced it was pulling all homophobic dancehall songs from its website. As Jonah Engle reports, the campaign is stirring up a debate that is pitting human rights against artistic license'.

NOTE: The report closes with Bunny Wailer's song 'Cool Running', in order to bring back some peace with roots lyrics. This is quite ironical, as few people will know that Bunny Wailer is part of Jamaican artists that use their stage performaces to spread homophobia. He done it at least once, in January 2001.
(WNYC Podcast)

April 19, 2008: Bounty Killer's performance inciting gay violence in Guyana
Coming back from a European tour that where several concerts were cancelled and where he faced protests by gays and lesbians at the remaining venues, Bounty Killer couldn't countained himself during his April 19* perfomance in Guayana. Thinking that he was now free to say whatever he wants, as he was now in the Caribbean, the first thing he shouted when entering the stage was: “All battyman fi dead”. Despite several warning from Wildfire promotion, the singer used his stage performance to promote hatered and sing an anti-gay songs*. The performance was interuped three times because of what was reported as technical problem. However, the two artists that performed before him didn't faced any problems. Julian Jones-Griffith, Bounty Killer manager, also tough that the audio cut-off might have something to do with the artist comments: 'Wayne Wonder and QQ performed prior to Bounty, their performances free of any technical glitches. However, five minutes into Bounty’s performance the generator packed up and all power to the stage was cut. I myself checked to see if it was anything other than the generator and was satisfied that it was indeed a technical problem'. In a second article published in Stabroek News, the short concert is resumed: 'Less than ten minutes into his nerve-racking and rather inappropriate performance, the Fusion audio sound system suffered a breakdown. Keeping his cool, the Five Star General sat on a stool centre stage waiting for the power to be restored. Once this was done, he began his performance once more, still attacking members of the gay community and celebrating gun violence. After two more power failures cut short his performance, the annoyed crowd began throwing bottles at the stage. This was nearing 2 am and Bounty Killer had not even given his thirsty fans five songs. Power was restored but about five minutes into his act, he was asked to leave the stage as it was time for the show to end, added to which, gunshots rang out'. Some desapointed Guayanese fans, protested the short concert by throwing beer bottles at the stage. Police had to discharged some warning shots, on two different occasions, to tame the crowd. In the initial report published by Stabroek News, it wrongly suggest that fans hurled bottle at the singer. In a press release issued two days after the incident, Wildfire Promotion said: “We can assure the general public that we do not believe in promoting violence of any kind and we strongly [condemn] it. We apologize if anyone was offended by any statements made by the artists or DJ’s hired to entertain at our Ignition Concert.”
(Stabroek News 1) (One 876 Entertainment) (Jamaica Star) (Stabroek News 2) (Stabroek News 3) (Stabroek News 4)
(GuyanaChronicle: Open Letter) (Stabroek News: Open Letter)

NOTE: Bounty Killer's concert actually occured on April 20, as it was past midnight when he reached the stage. Unfortunately, the name of the songs were not listed in the articles that I found. Make shure you read the two open letters, they are as relevant as the articles.

April 19, 2008: Lady G and Turbulence join the rank of singers who preach violence against gays
On Saturday April 19, it was Sizzla's Birthday Bash dubbed 'Rise To The Occasion IV', a concert that was held at Temple Hall Estate, in Stony Hill, Jamaica. The show that lasted five hours, featured over 20 artists: Junior Cat, Hawkeye, Richie Spice, Bascom X, Nature, Natural Black, Turbulence, Lady G, Junie Platinum, Mavado, Cocoa Tea, Spragga Benz, Lutan Fyah, Twins Of Twins, Monster Hempire and Sizzla. (plus several new commers: Stream, Dada, Fyakin, I-Lion, Bobo David, Burning Flame and Terrorist). Condemnation of homosexuality and the rejection of the new drive by police to enforce the 'Noise Abatement Act' were among the 'hot' topics of the evening. Lady G and Turbulence are two of the artists that were specifically mentioned in articles making violent remarks on gays and lesbians. Extract from Jamaica Observer: 'That same night, we attended Sizzla's Birthday Bash, dubbed Rise To The Occasion IV at Temple Hall Estate. The central issues addressed by the artistes in song and on-stage commentary were condemnation of homosexuality, the glorification of "gangsterism" and gun- "battyboy, mi an' mi ten big gun a go visit yuh" (Turbulence) and the rejection of the new drive by police to enforce the Noise Abatement Act. At various times, it seemed like we were attending a political rally with some very militant statements coming from artistes like Coco Tea, Turbulence and Twin of Twins in particular. Another article published in Jamaica Observer: 'It took a performance from a no-nonsense Lady G, whose lesbian-burning lyrics ignited the massive at Temple Hall Estate, for the event to once again rise to the occasion. Clearly in no mood to play, the ever-fresh Lady G was a warrior as she fiercely touched on topics like child abuse and homosexuality.
(Jamaica Observer 1) (Jamaica Observer 2) (Jamaica Observer 3)

NOTE: Only two artists were 'officially' reported preaching violence against gays and lesbians that evening. Probably more singers made similar comments... I'd be currious to find out if Sizzla was able to remain silent on the subject... For those of you who aren't familiar with 'burning' gays and lesbians in Jamaican culture, it is important to explaint that it's the biblical fire that comes from the Old Testament, very popular in Jamaican culture, used with exageration in dancehall lyrics. Still brings a very violent imagery. The fact that preachers/signers link homosexuality with pedophilia is really a problem in Jamaican culture. Those two things that are completely different. Is this a lack of education or simply part of their agenda to get a stronger crowd approval for discrimination and hatered? For the record, I am totally opposed to pedophilia and I'm tired of seeing the two link together.

April 24, 2008: Collage – The Boycott in Jamaican News
I was very surprise to see that much coverage of the boycott in Jamaican News. These are the articles that I found so far.
(Jamaica Gleaner: February 28) (Jamaica Gleaner: April 8) (Jamaica Star: April 24) (Jamaica Star: May 22)

SLIGHTLY MENTIONNED
(Jamaica Star: May 13)

INTERNATIONAL PRESS
(Toronto Star) (Xtra) (Pink News) (Rod 2.0) (Egale Canada) (Hour) (YardFlex) (Xtra: Dispatches from Kingston) (GBMNews) (Xtra)

April 29, 2008: Canadian music retail chain Archambault removes homophobic songs
In response to calls from Egale Canada and Stop Murder Music (Canada), Archambault Inc, one of Eastern Canada’s biggest record dealers, has removed controversial murder music from its Canadian markets. Anti-gay tracks by popular dancehall artists Buju Banton, Elephant Man and T.O.K are no longer available from its retail and on line stores. The decision comes as a result of calls from Egale Canada and SMM requesting the removal of lyrical content which openly calls for the violence and murder of gays and lesbians. “Archambault Inc. is now the second prominent retailer in Canada to pull this murder music,” said Helen Kennedy, Executive Director of Egale Canada, “earlier this month Apple’s iTunes removed the controversial songs from its North American markets.”
(Egale Canada Press Release) (Hour)

April 29, 2008: Bounty Killer and Mavado: banned from Guyana
Omid a simmering row over his recent show here, Jamaican reggae singer, Rodney ’Bounty Killer’ Price has been banned from entering this country again and his protégé David Brooks called Mavado has been blacklisted owing to security concerns, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee announced yesterday. The minister also disclosed that entertainment company Wildfire Produ-tions had been sanctioned for its part in hosting Price who bashed gays and glorified guns with his lyrics at a show two Sundays ago at the National Park. Rohee did not disclose what sanction had been imposed on the company headed by businessman, Jonathan Beepat. Bounty Killer has sparked a lot of controversy following his recent performance at the National Park where despite pleas from his manager and officials of Wildfire Productions, he belted out a number of anti-gay lyrics promoted the use guns. Rohee told reporters at a press conference yesterday that the action was taken last week... MORE ON THE LINK BELOW
(Stabroek News)

May 6, 2008: Sizzla refused European visa: 17 concerts cancelled
It was made official on May 6 that Miguel Orlando Collins, aka Sizzla, was refused his visa for the Schengen countries. In other words, Sizzla was baned from performing in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Italy, Greece, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Sweden. Sizzla's European Tour starts on May 9 in Budapest, Hongary. So far, only four concerts remain: Budapest, Wroclaw (Poland), Prague (Czech Republic) and Zurich (Switzerland). The ban innitially affects 19 concerts of his European Tour (see NOTE lower). The previous day, Jamaica Star reported that Sizzla is still performing violent anti-gay songs. He performed his anthem 'Nah Apologise' (to no battyboy) as recent as Friday May 2nd, during a concert held at the University of Technology (Student's Activity Center), in Kingston, Jamaica. Sizzla signed the Reggae Compassionate Act in April 2007, stating that he will no longer promote discrimination on stage or on records against gays and lesbians. He has never respected his signature. Several video segments available on YouTube present him performing the song 'Nah Apologise' in various European countries. (see June 13, 2007 for more details). On May 29, it was announced that Sizzla himself would have renounced to the rest of his Europeen Tour. (See May 29, 2008 for more details).

NOTE: It was reported that the Montreuil and Amsterdam concerts ocurred, despite the fact that Sizzla wasn't authorized to enter France and Netherland. According to footage included on YouTube, Sizzla perfomed the violent homophobic songs To The Point and Nah Apologise. Initially 19 concerts would have to be canclled, but how many of them ended up happening? If you know of any concerts that went on during his Eutropeen tour let me know and I will correct the informations. (irieites72@yahoo.ca).
(PinkNews) (Jamaica Star) (LSVD Press Release) (Tetu 1) (Tetu 2) (Tetu 3) (Tetu 4) (Sizzla European Tour)

May 9, 2008: Coalition to defend dancehall singers against the 'attack' of gay rights groups
According to YardFlex, 'a Coalition to Defend the Rights of Black Businesses, Black Organizations and Reggae Artists has been formed to provide a unified voice to defend the Reggae Industry against these attacks by the Gay community and other issues'. On June 2nd YardFlex was promoting the blog 'Reggae Lovers For Freedom Of Speech'.

NOTE: It is possible that 'Maria Jackson's blog entitled 'Reggae Lovers For Freedom Of Speech' is the same project as the coalition promoted by YardFlex on May 9. I wrote an email to Maria Jackson, but she never replied.

Never occured to think that if dancehall singers did not promote violence against the gay community, there wouldn't be any conflict? Now dancehall singers are seeking to defend themselves... Why don't you sign the Reggae Compassionate Act and respect it instead, you will see, it's possible to walk into this world without confrontation when you are acting in a peaceful and responsible way.
(YardFlex 1) (YardFlex 2) (blog: Reggae Lovers For Freedom Of Speech)

May 10, 2008: Elephant Man touring United States without signing the RCA
On April 8, Elephant Man released his 'Let's Get Physical' album, an album that has been delayed for months. The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard Reggae Album’s Chart. This album is the first one the artist is releasing since 2003's 'Good 2 Go' album. The long gap between the two albums is mostlikely attributed to the Stop Murder Music campaign. On May 10, he started his United States tour in Tampa, Florida. Elephant Man still haven't signed the Reggae Compassionate Act, a document that he should signed before being allowed to performed in North Amercia. So far, 22 concerts have been announced for his US tour.
(Let's Get Physical US Tour Dates)

May 13, 2008: Buju Banton pleads with artistes to clean up lyrics
In Buju Banton's latest Gargamel Gleaner, the popular dancehall artiste is pleading with fellow dancehall entertainers to clean up their lyrics in order to stem the social decay that is not only present in Jamaica but most of the Caribbean countries where the music is very popular. Lyrical content in dancehall music has been a hot topic in the Caribbean lately. Recently the Guyanese government decided to not only ban Bounty Killer and Mavado from the country, but also banned their music on the radio. Other Caribbean countries have been attempting to ban the popular Passa Passa street dances that has been a hit in Jamaica due to the type of dancing and general behaviour associated with the street party. In Trinidad and Tobago, popular radio personality Hypa Hoppa pleaded with fellow DJs to be careful what music is played on the radio. According to the Gargamel Gleaner, the country is "presently having a problem with; crime, politics, the dons, the deejays and lesbian and gays." "We are suffering a social decay yet no one, not a single one of our entertainers, have seen the need for a change in the lyrical content they are selling," Buju Banton said. Buju continued, "What happened? Have we all become followers now, instead of leaders for our people? No wonder these political snipers are getting away with blue murder. Everybody is afraid of what speaking out might bring." (TAKEN FROM TTGAPERS)

NOTE: The whole Buju Banton speach, published in his newly established 'Gargamel Gleaner', can be found at the end of the TTGapers article. Other artists have recently expressed the need to clean up dancehall lyrics: Lady Saw, Mavado, Vybz Kartel and Ninja Man. If you know any other artists that publicly express such concerns, let me know and I will include them.
(TTGapers) (Jamaica Star 1) (Jamaica Star 2) (One876Entertainment) (Jamaica Observer 1) (Jamaica Observer 2)

May 17, 2008: Jamaican boycott is called off
Jamaican government have been ignoring the concern of the international community to adress homophobia and taking the approprite mesure to face the crisis of violence that Jamaican gays and lesbians are facing on a daily basis. In order to pressure the Jamaican government to adopt a policy to protect human rights, the idea of a boycott was suggest during the pannel discussion The Sound Of Hate, on February 29. Three weeks later, Egale Canada was adressing to the Consulate General of Jamaica in Toronto, a list of issues that the Jamaican government would need to adopt and if they didn't show any positive action to adress the situation, a boycott would be launch on May 17, which is International Day Against Homophobia. Among the issues expressedn in the letter, Egale Canada requests: A government Public Service announcement denouncing homophobic/transphobic violence in Jamaica, a national homophobia/transphobia Education campaign and repealing the Buggery Laws and other legislation that further stigmatize, discriminate and criminalize consensual same sex acts. (see March 20 2008, for complete letter). J-FLAG, Jamaica's Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays, as shown concern that such a boycott could end up bringing more violence to the Jamaican gay community "Yet, because of the possible repercussions of increased homophobic violence against our already besieged community, we feel that a tourist boycott is not the most appropriate response at this time. In our battle to win hearts and minds, we do not wish to be perceived as taking food off the plate of those who are already impoverished". Jason MacFarlane, the current program director at J-FLAG, says that SMMC and Egale's campaign against murder music gets people talking and that is a good thing. But he's opposed to the tourist boycott because he says it complicates J-FLAG's work. "I personally understand where they're coming from," he says. "But [Egale and SMMC] are in a position where they can't see what's happening day-to-day. They are not facing the realities. If J-FLAG had one case [of violence against gay people] a week, since the boycott we have three. They're not seeing the reality. It is essentially bringing more violence on the community." On May 20, when asked to clarify the situation on the suggested boycott, Egale Canada wrote me: "Calls for a boycott of Jamaica is called off, however Egale Canada and Stop Murder Music (Canada) are still calling on Canadians to make informed choices about where they travel to or what products they buy".

When requested to comment on the boycott, Jamaican prime minister Bruce Golding' reafirmed his position: "There is a road down wich I am not going to allow this country to go under my leadership".The leader has been misleading the conflict, always bring it to the ground of same-sex union debate, which is not at all what J-FLAG and international Human Rights are requesting from the Jamaican governemnt. The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) had expressed concern about the threats, and added that the Canadian market was a particularly viable one. Wayne Cummings, head of the JHTA, told THE STAR “They are a very forward-thinking, liberal country, and I’m sure there may be some credibility to the argument that they could affect us.” J-FLAG have woked very heard since 2000 to request that Jamaican government remove the Buggery Laws. Jamaican governement have not shown any signs to repealed those outdated laws.
(Jamaica Star 1) (Xtra: Dispatches from Kingston) (Jamaica Star 2)

NOTE: I suggest that you read the entire article published in Xtra (Dispatches from Kingston), as it brings an important perspective on why the boycott was called off. But I'd like to correct the writer: as far as I know, the initial idea of a boycott was lauched and supported by people from the Caribbean who grew up in the climate of violence and have lost friends trough homophobic killing. Even Gareth Henry, who has been co-chair of J-FLAG between July 2004 and January 2008 have said that he would supported a tourist boycott of Jamaica. But obviously, it's not everyone at J-FLAG who share his opinion. If you want to read some of the oppinion expressed on the boycott, before if was called off: (GBMNews) (Xtra). On April 14, I was aksed to take position on the boycott by Xtra, the Canadian gay and lesbian newspaper. A portion of it was print in their paper. Click here to read my position on the Jamaican boycott.

May 20, 2008: Jamaica Prime Minister interviewed on BBC: no homosexuals in my cabinet
Jamaican Prime Minister Bruce Golding is defending his declaration on a BBC talk show, that homosexuals would not be welcome in his Cabinet. Responding to a Gleaner editorial, criticising the tone of his response to questions about homosexuality on BBC's HARDtalk Tuesday, Golding made it clear his Government was not about to erode the country's innate values that determine both its prejudices and morals. "Values inherently involve prejudices," Golding wrote in a letter to the editor. "For example, we are prejudiced against incest and prostitution. Should we now be required to recognise the rights of incesters and prostitutes and find accommodation for them in the Cabinet?" (text taken from GayNewsWatch.com).
(BBC News – Hard Talk) (Jamaica Observer) (Jamaica Gleaner 1) (Jamaica Gleaner 2) (Jamaica Gleaner 3)
(Jamaica Gleaner: Opinions)

May 21, 2008: Unsigned artist Jomo Minott already on the list of singers that promote hate
Online music stores are selling so-called Murder Music despite protests from gay rights activists. Martin Adelskov, founder of leading LGBT radio station Pride Radio Denmark, has complained to Freewebs.com and Indietitan.com after coming across the hate-filled content by unsigned artist Jomo Minott. "It's insane that online music stores and free internet hosting services wont block users whose sole purpose, with their musical career, is spreading hatred though music," Mr Adelskov told PinkNews.co.uk. "I immediately emailed the support on Indietitan.com, and several hours later, I received an email letting me know they would start an investigation at the very same moment." Mr. Adelskov also reported the artist's website hosting service Freewebs.com. "Freewebs.com actually has an abuse-policy, and 'spreading hatred' is on that list, so I thought they would be easy to dance with. "But Freewebs.com are either full of it or they simply just don't get it, because the site is still there. "It really scares me that internet companies like Freewebs.com and Indietitan.com are making sure that the ugly face of hatred has a platform from where they can speak." The Stop Murder Music campaign, headed by legendary activist Peter Tatchell, has added Jomo Minott to its list of hate artists (text from PinkNews).
(Pink News)

May 29, 2008: Sizzla cancelled the remaining dates of his European Tour
Tjenbé Rèd had just found some common ground with Sizzla through the mediation of Eddie Brown, his European agent. Sizzla had acknowledged that he had made some “mistakes” (by which he meant, had again performed some songs with homophobic lyrics). This was after he had put his signature to the Reggae Compassionate Act (RCA) on the 15th of April 2007, which committed him never to perform such songs. Sizzla had subsequently, as we had asked, brought himself again within the scope of the RCA, according to a statement by his European agent, dated Tuesday the 27th May 2008 at 22:35. ...However, according to Havana Café, where he was scheduled to perform this evening (29 May) in Ramonville near Toulouse, then on Sunday the 1st of June at Montpellier, Sizzla is said to have suddenly decided to cancel the remainder of his French tour. He left suddenly for Jamaica without even giving formal notice of his decision to the organisers of the remaining concerts. These organisers have found themselves reduced to trying to understand the elliptical comments coming from Eddie Brown’s office. He apparently does not take or return their telephone calls, despite the fact that they have forked out in advance some €8,000 per concert, and have incurred other expences for promotion or the technical teams’ salaries. (text taken from Tjenbé Rèd) (see May 6, 2008 for more details)

NOTE: I have found no english publications that wrote articles on Sizzla's decision to cancelled the remaining concerts of his European Tour. But how many of these concerts were left? According to my research, his decision was affecting four concerts: Ramonville (May 29), Villeurbanne (May 30), Lille (May 31) and Montpellier (June 1), which two of them were already officially cancelled. One article mentionned that Sizzla signed again the RCA (probably the new version of the RCA – to be confirmed). In the Tetu article, it is reported that Eddie Brown was thinking about suing LGBT European groups or the German authorities that stopped Sizzla from entering the Schengen countries, for the money he lost (which he estimates as being several hundred thousand euros). I have a question: Why would Eddie Brown honoured Sizzla with a European Tour in 2008, knowing the fact that Sizzla didn't respect the RCA in 2007? Eddie Brown has initiate the RCA with OutRage! in the Spring of 2007. Why a promoter give a contract to a musician who clearly did not respect a previous contract that was partly written by the same promoter?
(Press Release 1) (Press Release 2) (Press Release 3) (Press Release 4) (Press Release 5) (Press Release 6) (Tetu) (ReggaeFrance)

June 4, 2008: Tjenbé Rèd suggests a dialogue to Danchall lovers
Two weeks of confrontation on Sizzla’s coming to France (from the 9th to the 20th of May). One week of (ultimately aborted) discussions with Sizzla’s people (from the 20th to the 27th of May). And a week of a noisy clashes between the various parties’ differing versions of the outcome of these discussions (from the 27th May until today). Now Tjenbé Rèd is suggesting to the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi- and trans-sexual) community and to the Dancehall community to move on a bit to perhaps a more constructive phase - that of dialogue. To all well-intentioned people, Tjenbé Rèd suggests we meet in a bar, around a drink, to look for a solid solution to this impasse and to find some area for dialogue between the LGBT community and that of Dancehall. Meet on Saturday the 7th of June at 16:00 in Paris, near the St-Paul Metro. The code word for this operation is “Tout' moun' sé moun' !” which is French West Indian Creole for “Everybody is a person!” (text from Tjenbé Rèd)
(Press Release)

NOTE: David Auerbach: 'Unfortunately, nobody showed up at the meeting point'. Maybe because the date and time was not to the convenience of people that would have been opened to start a dialogue. He wrote that he was ready to make another meeting point where people could suggest a time and place at their conveniences.

June 11, 2008: Red Stripe to sponsor Red Stripe Temptation Isle
Is red stripe softening its stance on sponsorship of live events? This is the question on many lips this afternoon as information surfaces that the annual high end Red Strip live events party RTI is on for July 31 to august 3 in Negril. You may recall that a few months ago, red stripe announced that it had withdrawn sponsorship from all live events in an effort to positively affect the Jamaican music landscape. Events which have been affected as a result of this decision includes Reggae Sumfest of which Red Stripe was a title sponsor and dancehall shows generally, which would see the brand sponsoring in one form or another. However Red Stripe Temptation Isle or RTI as it is more commonly known may see a softening in the brands stance on live events as it’s all systems go for the annual live entertainment event. However, brand public relations manager of red stripe Kim Lee, tells Music News that that they will be sponsoring the parties and not to live events. Reggae Sumfest on the other hand, announced at its launch earlier today that although Red Stripe had withdrawn title sponsorship from the festival, Red Stripe will still be the official liquor on the ground. (text taken from Irie FM)
(Irie FM)

June 12, 2008: Richie Spice banned from Irie FM
The Jamaica Observer broke news of Irie FM’s ban of Richie Spice’s Music on its airwaves. According to the station “Effective immediately, artistes who include explicit lyrics or indecent language in previously clean pre-released singles on CDs or other released music, will be facing a media black-out by the company.” This comes on the heels of an embarrassing moment for a radio DJ who played the title track off Riche Spice’s "Gideon Boot" Album on the air. At the end of the song there was an expletive “B*&% c@#%, it finish already." It seems promotional CDs that the station were given were clean, but when the actual album was received and played on air, the format was different as the expletive was added. Of course it comes as a shock to many since Richie Spice is known not for using profanity, but for his positive and uplifting music. The newspaper quotes his assistant Ornaldo 'Junior' Thompson as saying that, "It was just a vibe. When he finished singing the song he made the exclamation and the engineer captured it. I guess because it sounded natural and musical, he left it on the track. When the raw footage was being submitted to the company it was on it and because our badwords have no meaning on the overseas market, the company just left it at the end of the track." (text taken from Lime).

NOTE: I am not shure, but I don't think that the controversial sentence have nothing to do with homosexuality. I think this news belongs on this page as it shows another action being put in place in Jamaica to clean up the music. But I agree with those who think it's too drastic to ban the entire catalogue from an artist. It seems like IrieFM used Richie Spice to get their point across. According to the date from the news coming from ReggaeFrance, the new IrieFM policy would have been posted on their website on May 12 (or May 13). The story appeared in the Jamaica Observer on May 20. On June 12, the Internet press offcialized Richie Spice's ban on IrieFM.
(The Lime) (YardFlex) (Jamaica Observer) (Reggae France)

June 14, 2008: RainbowVibes.com: Caribbeans first Gay and Lesbian social network
Jamaica, dubbed one the most homophobic nations on earth has spawned the Caribbeans first Gay and Lesbian social network, RainbowVibes.com: Where Caribbean Gay Life Meets the World. Andrea Rainford: 'The site is an online hub for Caribbean gay, lesbian, bisexual individuals living at home and overseas, in addition to the many others across the globe who have interest in the Caribbean. Now Jamaican gays and lesbians can connect with others in Trinidad or Barbados or Guyana. Likewise, American, Canadian and European gays and lesbians can meet Caribbean gays and lesbians in that single space online at rainbowvibes.com'. Its the brainchild of Matthew Raine, a gay Jamaican IT executive who now lives in Canada and Andrea Rainford, a Jamaican lesbian marketing executive who lives in Kingston, Jamaica. 'The need was glaring and since its something we craved ourselves and had the know how to get it done, we said lets be bold and give this Pride month gift to our community of Caribbean LGBT people wherever they are in the World', Matthew said. The site, which is translatable in six languages, has all the interactive features of a social network like Facebook. Members are able to create and join groups, add music, events, videos, chat, make friends, find dates, create and join discussions, write blogs and read news from the Caribbean and the World. An online store will be launched soon where members can buy RainbowVibes.com merchandise such as t-shirts and stickers (a good chunk of the funds generated will go towards Caribbean LGBT organisations). 'Our focus is on making the site it a fun,vibrant and meaningful destination online where our members are happy to spend time and tell their friends about it too', Matthew explained. RainbowVibes.com went line on June 14, 2008. (text taken from Silicone Caribe)
(RainbowVibes.com) (SiliconeCaribe)

June 20, 2008: Poll results: One Jamaican out of four believes in equal rights for gays
The polls, conducted on May 31 and June 1 across 84 communities in Jamaica's 14 parishes, found that 70 per cent of respondents believe that homosexuals and lesbians should not be entitled to the same basic rights and privileges enjoyed by heterosexual Jamaicans. The polls, which had a margin of error of plus or minus three per cent, found that 26 per cent of respondents believe that homosexuals should enjoy the same level of lifestyle as other persons. The study found that women are more accommodating of gay lifestyles. Some 34 per cent of them said gays should enjoy the same basic rights compared to 20 per cent of males who share this view. (Text taken from Jamaica Gleaner. More on the link below)
(Jamaica Gleaner)

June 20, 2008: 'Taboo', a new Jamaican documentary on gays & lesbians in the making
Jamaican-American Actress, Model and now Filmmaker Selena Blake that is currently working on a second documentary titled 'Taboo... Gay and Lesbian Yardies. The Voices of Those Who Dare to Speak'. In early 2006, she released the documentary 'Queensbridge: The Other Side' based on the lives of the people living in “The Bridge” - the Queensbridge Housing Project, whose residents are hardworking multi-cultural, multi-ethnic families trying to make ends meet. Her new documentary wants to open dialogue about homosexuality between all spheres of the Jamaican society. The press release for her new project read: 'As a Jamaican I’m aware of the zero tolerance attitudes most fellow Jamaicans (aka “yardie”) feel towards homosexuals (aka “Battyman”) and lesbians. But I’ve never personally witnessed or know of anyone being harmed solely because of their sexual preference. ...This documentary is not endorsing homosexuality or lesbianism; nor is it intended as a medium for criticism or that condones violence of any kind. It is intended to shed some light on one of the many stereotypes that plague our culture, that most Jamaicans are violent towards gays and lesbians in Jamaica....Our mission is to bring awareness not only to this reality, but to the reality of the homophobic mentality and behavior to the extent it does exist. And to denounce the violence that is being perpetrated on gays and lesbians in Jamaica -a mentality that is based on a lack of information/education- an ignorance that permeates throughout a relatively small percentage of the Jamaican culture. ...Our goal is to find not neutral, but common ground, where all can stand tall and be proud of our legacy like the Bob Marley’s, Peter Tosh, Dennis Brown, Berres Hammond & Judy Mowatt, Marcia Griffiths, Luciano and so many other legendary conscious artist of all time. The time has come for "YARDIES" to address this homophobic behavior, -whether perception or reality- in a more socially responsible manner. We all have the right to our opinions and choices; and rightfully so. But we do not have the right to harm anyone on the basis of his or her color, religion, race and sexual preference.' The film maker is seeking for 'interviews from all categories; gays, bisexuals, lesbians, heterosexuals males & females Jamaicans and from all different socioeconomic background who are brave and bold enough to come on camera and speak their truth pro and anti so we can finally get to the bottom of this madness and start the healing process'. A fundrasing party was organised in Manhattan on June 26. The documentary is due to premiere late Fall 2009. More information available on the Press Release below.
(Press Release 1) (Press Release 2) (Fundraising Press Release) (Jamaica Gleaner) (New York Daily News)
(TabooYardies.com)

Information about Selena Blake previous documentary:
(Queensbridge:The Other Side) (7-minute teaser) (28-minute interview) (collection of articles) (introduction to Selena Blake's career)

Information about Selena Blake previous documentary:
(Queensbridge:The Other Side)


June 23, 2008: Ninja Man promotes One Umbrella Movement
Dressed in all-white, Ninja Man took his seat at the front of the conference centre, appearing relaxed, and focused on discussing the One Umbrella Movement and its organisation, which promotes non-violence, especially amongst the youth. "There is no one better than me to head this movement. Bounty can't do it; Beenie Man can't do it. Only a man like me who has lived the life I've lived can be a role model to these youths, and telling them that if they go the path of drugs, they will end up like this, or if they take up a gun, they will end up like that. I've been down that road, which everyone knows, and it's time for me to take up this cause to save the youths from a life that's not good. I know, I've been there as everybody knows. The only two other man who could do this is Josie Wales, or Super Cat. We know that violence will never be eliminated, but we can at least bring violence down, and I am going to do it!" So said Ninja Man when asked how his life's experience has prepared him for this role. One of the mandates of the One Umbrella Movement is to have chapters in most Reggae consuming countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America and throughout the Caribbean. Focus will be placed on giving youths resources they so badly need to take their minds away from violence, and focus on prosperity. As an initial offering, young entertainers will be given a sound system to hold their own dance in their local community. Also, there are talks of installing a car wash, and educating youths on business management." (TAKEN FROM JAMAICA OBSERVER)
(Jamaica Observer)

June 24, 2008: Ja'Sound Tour 2008 would be cancelled, for potential forest fire risks
On June 23, Tjenbé Rèd requested vigilance on three of the twenty artists that were programmed on the Jah'Sound Tour 2008 in Cuges-les-Pins, located East of Marseille, in France. The following day, a second press release informed that the festival would be cancelled as the organisers were not able to meet the conditions of the Cuges-les-Pins municipality to prevent potential forest fire from happening. The festival was to be located in the Provencal hills, in the South of France, an area that is subject to fire. In it's first press release, Tjembé Rèd requested vigilance on different levels for the three artists. Beenie Man must re-affirm his intention to respect the Reggae Compassionate Act, a document that he publicly denied signing. Sizzla must clarify his May 27 declarations and Capleton must confirm that he still respects his signature of the RCA. In the second press release, Tjenbé Rèd stated that they had no intention for the festival to be cancelled, but want to make shure that the three artists fully respect their engagement of the RCA.
(Tjenbé Rèd Press Release 1) (Tjenbé Rèd Press Release 2) (Ja'Sound Tour 2008)

July 7, 2008: Straight Pride has a 'homophobic agenda'
A Straight Pride parade is being organized by TCOOO Productions, a reggae music label who is furious because a hit song by their artist Stapler, 'Hit Them Hard', has been banned by some radio stations because it encourages violence against gays. Reggae performer Jango Fresh said in a press release: "The Straight Pride parade is a great idea because when a song like 'Hit Them Hard' by my label mate Stapler can be banned just because it stresses the importance of a male and a female in every family, it is a sign that heterosexuals need to wake up." TCOOO Production press release: The Straight Pride Parade is a chance for Heterosexuals to gather together and proudly embrace their sexuality. The Parade will also allow reggae and dancehall fans who are in New York City for the Labor Day celebrations to get together and celebrate reggae, dancehall and family in love and unity. Adults are encouraged to bring their children along for the celebrations, as the event will be family oriented. The president of TCOOO said he hopes the event will unify the reggae community who has seen many reggae events cancelled recently not only in the United States but all over Europe and the Caribbean. "I sat quietly and watched as they cancelled artists like Buju Banton, Sizzla Kalonji and Capleton" he said, "but when the gay community went after TCOOO artists like Vineyard the Rebel Priest, Stapler and Jango Fresh we decided that we must make a show of strength." Commenting on the planned Straight Pride, gay human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, a spokesperson for OutRage! and the Stop Murder Music campaign, said: "The US is a free country. Let them have their misnamed Straight Pride parade. They say it is a celebration of heterosexuality, but really it’s a promotion of straight supremacism. Their parade is driven by a homophobic agenda. They defend artists who incite hatred and violence against LGBT people. The organisers falsely claim that the Stop Murder Music campaign is an attack on reggae music. Nonsense. It is an attack on a small number of reggae singers who have perverted reggae's message of peace, love and justice. They have betrayed the liberation ideals of the reggae pioneers and are hijacking the genre to turn it into an anthem of homophobic hatred and violence. They are encouraging civil war in the black community. They want black straight people to kill black lesbians and gay men". The parade will take place on Eastern Parkway along the same route as the annual Caribbean labor day parade.
(PinkNews) (PR Web) (Hit Them Hard lyrics) (Oppinion: Long Bench)

July 12, 2008: Bounty Killer perform violent homophobic song at ‘What A Bam Bam’ festival
The 2008 Festival Song Competition at the National Indoor Sports Centre, St Andrew. This year’s event was dubbed, "Festival Song 2k8 – What A Bam Bam". Jamaica Star report’s Bounty Killer closing perfomance: ‘It was Bounty Killer who stole the spotlight for the night. Though it seemed not his usual crowd, Bounty Killer had the audience out of their seats and running to the front of the stage. And instead of the 'cross, angry and miserable' persona, the warlord was 'calm, cool and collected' throughout his performance. While he kept his music lyrically 'clean', passing over songs he deemed "too bad" Bounty Killer could not resist the urge to speak out against what he believes to be wrong in Jamaica. He entered on stage saying, "I notice di place nuh full like how it suppose to ram, yet when the boogoyagga foreign artiste come, di place ram. We mus' rememba dat we are many, show some patriotism," Bounty said. He went on to perform songs such as 'Anytime', 'Can't Believe Mi Eyes', and 'Look Into Ma Eyes' before closing with 'Nuh Fren Fish' (No homosexual friends). Although it was a family event, the artiste gave a running commentary on the prime minister's statement about having no homosexuals in his cabinet, applauding the PM's decision.

Note: Both songs 'Can’t Believe Mi Eyes' and 'Nuh Friend Fish' are homophobic songs. 'Nuh Friend Fish' promote the killing of homosexuals. The fourth link is a remix with gun sampling.
(Jamaica Star) (Nuh Fren Fish lyrics) (Nuh Fren Fish song) (Nuh Fren Fish remix)

July 18, 2008: Bounty Killer Arrested For Profanity at Sumfest
Bounty Killer was arrested early Friday morning at Reggae Sumfest which was held in Montego Bay, Jamaica. In a performance that started off very upbeat and was initially warmly received in front of the estimated 19,000 in attendance the mood changed dramatically as Bounty was booed when he began to disparage fellow artists Ninja Man and Beenie Man. With both unkind and, daresay, juvenile commentary that included physical threats, sexually charged comments and a slew of obscenities Bounty served to dampen the mood of what was proving to be a full but engaging lineup in front of a packed audience and large international media presence. After Bounty's performance the MC made an announcement that the police were closely monitoring all performances and those in violation of the laws would be arrested. Beenie Man who closed the show made light of Bounty's indiscretions (saying he should be forgiven) and played a set that left the capacity crowd streaming out at minutes after 6am fully satisfied with what proved, on the balance, to be an excellent night of terrific music. (text from WestIndianTimes). Jamaica Observer’s version is slightly different: ‘Bounty Killer who was in a 'cross, angry, and miserable' mood, and he showed it too! He started hitting out at Red Stripe for withdrawing their sponsorship, claiming their problem wasn't about violence but more particularly violence against homosexual men. He continued his cussing spree by disparaging Ninja Man and Beenie Man, but that was as far as the audience allowed him to go’. According to BillBoard, he was booed after criticizing Beenie Man and Ninja Man. Police said that Bounty Killer ‘unleashed a series of expletives and left the stage in a huff’. He was charged and released on bond. He is due to appear in court on July 31 when he will answer two counts of using indecent language and disorderly conduct. He faces a maximum penalty of 30 days in prison, or a fine.

NOTE: I might be wrong, but I have a feeling that the dis with Beenie Man and Ninja Man is related to signing the RCA and cleaning up the lyrics. In a YardFlex article, it is written that Bounty Killer called (once again) Beenie Man a fish. The term 'Fish' is a Jamaican slang for homosexual.
(WestIndianTimes) (Jamaica Observer) (BllBoarard) (YardFlex)

July 18, 2008: Reggae CDs Under German Scrutiny for Anti-Gay Lyrics
The homophobic lyrics of several Jamaican reggae musicians has moved the German government to consider blacklisting them and restrict their sales and distribution. The CDs by Elephant Man and T.O.K. could be put on the "Index of Harmful Materials," which, while it would not censor the materials in Germany, would severely limit their advertising and marketing.
The Federal Department for Media Harmful to Young Persons will decide over the next several months if the music will be included on the index, the government said on Thursday in its response to a parliamentary inquiry. The index includes items such as media which glorify war and violence and are intended to induce hate."Those in Jamaica who invoke hatred should not earn money with their music in Germany," he said on Thursday in Berlin. (text taken from DW-World.de) (more on the link below)
(DW-World.de)

August 12, 2008: Jamaican Lesbian Granted Asylum
In South Florida, a 29-year-old Jamaican lesbian was spared deportation to her native land after a judge found she could be beaten or killed there because of her sexual orientation. The immigration judge's decision is considered "extremely rare." The Miami Herald: 'The general atmosphere in Jamaica is a feeling of no tolerance towards homosexuals in general, and as such, . . . the respondent's life is definitely at risk,'' Immigration Judge Irma Lopez-Defillo said, according to court documents. Lopez-Defillo initially ordered that the woman be deported because of a pair of drug convictions. In the same ruling, the judge deferred the order based on the climate of intolerance in Jamaica. Nichole checked in with immigration authorities on Thursday regarding her order of supervision. She is due to report back in three months. The woman, who uses her middle name Nichole in court documents has lived in the States since 10 years old, says being gay ''is the worst thing you can be stricken with [in Jamaica].'' The woman says when she was a teenager and ''her sexuality became apparent, her parents, Seventh-day Adventists, tried to stage an intervention. Her parents sent her back to Jamaica'' and an aunt beat her.. (text taken from Rod 2.0) (more on the link below)
(Rod 2.0)

August 15, 2008: Sizzla so-called conscious lyrics: 35 songs where he advocates murder
TEXT FROM JAMAICA OBSERVER: Conscious deejay Miguel Collins, more popularly known as Sizzla, has advocated murder in at least 35 songs, that's more than Ninja Man, Mavado or Munga, yet he still considers himself righteous. His victims include, Pope John Paul II, politicians, policemen, informers, gunmen, gays, and even an innocent taxi driver. He's the "baddest mother***** ever seen". These songs are all gun tunes and don't include Sizzla's vast catalogue of fire-burning tunes. Splash analysed 34 of Sizzla's albums, which covers much of his known discography of over 300 songs. The music tells of a man deeply prolific but equally at odds, caught between God and the gun. (MORE ON THE LINK BELOW)
(Jamaica Observer)

August 31, 2008: Straight Pride Parade: Attendance Zero
In early July 2008, a New York reggae label, upset because one of his song was banned on radio because it was advertising violence to gays, decided to lauch the first Straight Pride parade in Brooklyn. The event was sheduled to occured during Labor Day weekend, one day prior to Brooklyn West Indian Carnival (the organizers of the carnival have distance themselves from the Straight Pride Parade). Gay blogger Joe.My.God turned up at the advertised meeting point at 10am on Sunday to find he was the only one there. "I did see a good number of cars whizzing by that were festooned with flags from Jamaica and other Caribbean nations, but those were probably just folks getting ready for tomorrow's massive West Indian Day Parade," he wrote. "Just to make sure I hadn't missed the fun, I popped into a few shops to inquire if anybody had seen a parade this morning. The manager of Raquel Shoes told me, "I've been here since 8:30am. It's been totally quiet all morning." When visiting the website of the reggae label on September 2nd, there was no pictures of the parade. The event wasn't even mention. Just two weeks before, the organisers issued a second Press Release advertising the parade.
(PinkNews) (JoeMyGod.blog) (TCOOO 2nd Press Release) (Hour) (TimeOut) (The Root)

NOTE: I must admit, I was currious to see how the Straight Pride Parade unfold. I visited YardFlex a few days later and found nothing. No article, simply because there was nothing to cover. I must say I was surprised. That meant even the organisers of the parade and their friends did not even showed up!? Maybe they just couldn't get a permit? (In Montreal, you need to have a permit to organise such events as it implies closing streets...). I cannot help but point out some of the text coming from their press release: "TCOOO label and Stapler believes the gay community targets Reggae because 99 percent of the artists are African American" "They go after Buju Banton and Sizzla, but they don't bother a Sean Paul or a Damian Marley. When Damian Marley said, 'Funny man get drop like a bad habit,' what do they think a funnyman is? A funnyman is a homosexual, so are they afraid to challenge a Marley, or is he not Black enough for the homosexual community to try and destroy?" and the funiest line of all: "Beenie man went on the Ru-Paul show so why are gays still bent on destroying Reggae music?" For those of you who really feel the need to advertise your heterosexuality, you can always buy a T-Shirt on StraightPride.com

September 26, 2008: What it's like to be a gay cop in Jamaica
On Februyary 24 2008, The New York Times ran an article on Jamaican homophobia. In the article a gay cop, Michael Hayden, explained his daily struggle. Seven months later, Current TV made a report on what it's like to be openly gay in Jamaican Police force. The report named 'Gay Jamaican Cop' was made by Michelle Bromley-McGhie and was broadcasted in England on VC2 (Viewer Credited Content) on September 26*. It last 5m29 and it's available online.
(Current TV: Gay Jamaican Cop)

NOTE: Wonderful interview made with a brave Jamaican cop. The video was posted September 26 on current.com, but seems to have been 'officially' broadcasted on Current TV only four days later.

October 9, 2008: Egale Canada Submits Report to the United Nations Human Rights Council
On September 25, Egale Canada's requested that Buju Banton would not be allowed a visa to perform for his upcoming concert at Toronto's Kool Haus on October 11. For Egale Canada, before being allowed in Canada, musicians that advocated the killing of gays and lesbians through their music in the past, must sign the Reggae Compassionate Act and make a public conference in the Caribbean to announce their signatures and publicly condemn violence made to gays, lesbians, bi-sexual and transgenders. So far, Buju Banton signed the first version of the Reggae Compassionate Act, but his management company denied his signature. He also performed part of his controversial song 'Boom Bye Bye', at least once, after signing the RCA. Canadian Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Diane Finley have ignored Egale Canada's request. “The Minister has abdicated her duties by allowing Buju Banton into the country and as a result has provided him with a platform to incite ‘murder’ said Akim Larcher, spokesperson for Stop Murder Music (Canada). “Buju Banton has continued to perform ‘murder music’ whilst on tour in the Caribbean and has recently said that gays and lesbians are part of social decay.”To date, our Federal Government has ignored requests to revoke Buju Banton’s visa and has been silent on the issue of “murder music” for over a year now. On October 9, Egale Canada Submited a report to the United Nations Human Rights Council documenting key areas where Canada has failed to comply with its national and international obligations to LGBT rights.: “The governments lack of transparency in addressing the issues and their blatant lack of consultation with Canadian not-for-profits, could lead to Canada producing a National report that is one-sided, partial and slanted to the actual situation of LGBT human rights in Canada,” says Helen Kennedy, Executive Director of Egale Canada. A copy of the report can be obtained by contacting Egale Canada.

On October 22, Egale Canada called for a boycott of the Kool Haus, a popular venue for LGBT events, especially during Pride week. Akim Adé Larcher: "In spite of verbal and written assurances to Stop Murder Music (Canada), Egale Canada and Proud FM that the concert had been cancelled, Kool Haus’ CEO Charles Khabouth went against his words and provided a platform to Buju Banton, one of the most notorious homophobic/transphobic artists".
(Egale Canada: Open Letter) (Egale Canada: Press Release) (Egale Canada: Press Release for United Nation Report)
(Egale Canada: Kool Haus boycott)

October 14, 2008: Tjenbé Rèd! request that Anthony B sign the RCA
On October 6, Jamaican artist Anthony B launched a 16-date European tour. The french Caribbean LGBT organisation Tjenbé Rèd! request that Anthony B sing the Reggae Compassionate Act in order to perform in Europe due to the existance of at least four homophobic songs written between 1996 and 2002. Anthony B was supposed to perform at Vitry-le-François (Marne), France on October 12, 2008, but the concert was cancelled by the mayor's request, to avoid public disorder. On October 15, Tjenbé Rèd! request a public debate on 'Murder Music'. See french Press Releases for more details. On October 18, a Press Release was issued where Anthony B was responding to the association via his French lawyer to some violent homophobic statements that he would have made in an interview, published in the French magazine Reggae Massive in 2001. In that article he said that if his son was gay he would kill him (see link lower for transcrip of this interview). Instead of trying to get the concerts cancelled, Tjenbé Rèd was reaching for a dialogue with dancehall fans and the singer. On October 21, when performing at Toulouse, judging by his actions, Anthony B clearly manifested that he has no intention to sing the Reggae Compassionate Act and that he is not ready to move on with his homophobic past: during the concert, he insulted the gay community by using several time the pejorative term 'pedal', a french equivalent to 'chi chi man', when pointing out at his behind. The following day, Tjenbè Rèd! invited other LGBT organisations and concert venue holder to be vigilent on the remaining 5 dates of his tour. On October 24, to avoid possible public disorder in his town, the owner of the venue and mayor of Sannois (France) cancelled the concert that was sheduled for October 28, 2008. In it's latest press release, Tjenbé Rèd! mentionned that they were not in favour of concerts to be cancelled, but maintained their position on establishing a public debate on 'Murder Music' and the importance of signing and observing the Reggae Compassionate Act.
(Press Release 1) (Press Release 2) (Press Release 3) (Press Release 4) (Press Release 5) (Press Release 6) (Press Release 7)
(Tjenbé Rèd 17-page dossier) (Anthony B article in Reggae Massive)
(Reggae France 1) (Reggae France 2) (Reggae France 3)
(Tjenbé Rèd dossier: three years of figting against 'Murder Music') (Trac distributed on October 13)

MY OPPINION: After reading what happen at the Toulouse concert, I can't help but saying: What a stupid attitude to adopt when a LGBT organisation is trying to make things smoother by establishing the dialogue instead of cancelling your concerts. This is the type of attitude you may expect from a 8-year old in a school yard. Anthony B: it's a good thing that you show us your behind: A good kick in the ass and don't come back. You are a shame to reggae music. Any decent human being would NEVER object to sign the RCA. It probably made some people laugh that night, but I am positive that a majority of reggae fans will think twice before investing their money into this artist again.

NOTE: A fair portion of Tjenbé Rèd 17-page dossier as been directly taken from my website. I have no problem with this, but just wish to specify that I am not associated with their organisation. Although we share similar goals, their oppinion does not necessarly reflect mine. I applause their initiative to open up a dialogue with dancehall fans and appreciate all the energy the gay and lesbian organisations put daily so we can live in a better and saffer world.

October 28, 2008: Video proof surfaces: Capleton broke his signature of the RCA
On December 25 2007, while performing at Magnum GT Taylor Christmas Extravaganza (Black River, Jamaica), Capleton sang the homophobic song 'Fire Time' and promoted violence agaisnt gays and lesbians with sentences like 'Battyman fi dead di yuth em right bout that'. By doing so, he breakes his signature of the Reggae Compassionate Act, an official document that he signed in May 2007 in order to move on with his violent homophobic past and be able to tour in Europe. By promoting violence towards gays and lesbians onsatge in Jamaica, the artist proves that his signature of the RCA was a fluke and was done strictly for financial purpose. Although these videoclips of the Xmas Extravaganza 2007 were posted on YouTube earlier this year, they were only brought to gays and lesbians attentions in late October by the Swizerland branch of Stop Murder Music campaing. Contrary to the other associations that works under th banner 'Stop Murder Music', the one located in Bern (Switzerland) was created by heterosexuals (see April 2008 for more details). The discovery of the videoclip may well jeopardize Capleton 23-date European Tour that starts on November 3rd. The same date, the gay and lesbian organisation HABS (from Basel, Switzerland) wrote an open letter to Capleton (see lower), pointing out his responsability as an artist and requesting that he stop promoting hatered and violence. In the absence of a positive answer, the LGBT group made it clear that he would not be welcome to performed in Switzerland on November 6th. On November 5th, the concert scheduled for Basel was cancelled by the organizers. On November 7th, the concert sheduled for Tournefeuille (Toulouse), France on November 26 was cancelled. A petition named 'Sauvons le dancehall' (translation: Save Dancehall Music) has been circulating since November 10. This petition was lauched by two French dancehall fans that believe in establishing a dialogue with Human Rights groups to reach a compromise, instead of having cancellation (see NOTE No.2, lower).
(YouTube – clip of the concert) (Transcript Of The YouTube segment) (Capleton European Tour)
(XTra News Jamaica: Extravaganza concert review) (GT Taylor homepage review)
(HABS Open Letter) (HABS Press Release) (Stop Murder Music Bern Press Release) (Tjenbé Rèd Press Release 1)
(Tjenbé Rèd Press Release 1) (Tjenbé Rèd Press Release 2) (Tjenbé Rèd Press Release 3) (Tjenbé Rèd Press Release 4)
(Tjenbé Rèd Press Release 5) (Tjenbé Rèd Press Release 6)
(Tjenbé Rèd – Other document) (petition: Sauvons le Dancehall!)

NOTE 1: For a confirmation that this concert really occured after Capleton signed the RCA, visit YardFlex to see pictures of the 2007 Christmas Extravaganza concert. Notice the satge is identical to the one featured in the clip. According to Xtra News, that concert drew a huge crowd and featured over 40 artists, including Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Jah Cure, Richie Spice, Freddie McGregor, Tarrus Riley...

NOTE 2: A petition is quite welcome, as it will implied dancehall fans that are tired of this situation. But the request should not be adressed to Human Rights groups (read gay and lesbian groups) like the current petition states. It should have been adress to Capleton, Sizzla, Elephant Man, Bounty Killer, Anthony B, Buju Banton, Baby Chan (and the list goes on and on...) requesting that they stop promoting violence and hatered. The solution is not hard, it just take some good will. If they don't respect the values stated in the RCA, they should be denied their Visas. Period. Although I favorise a dialogue instead of an endless fight, there should be no compromise with people that promote violence against anyone.

December 18, 2008: In a first, Gay Rights are pressed at the United Nations
TEXT FROM ARTICLE: Sixty-six countries at the United Nations have called for homosexuality to be decriminalised. The countries signed a declaration sponsored by France and the Netherlands demanding an end to legal punishment based on sexual orientation. Sixty other countries of the UN's 192 member states, including a number of Arab and African states, rejected the non-binding declaration. They said laws on homosexuality should be left to individual countries. Gay men, lesbians and transsexuals worldwide face daily violations of their human rights. Homosexuality is a criminal offence in more than 80 countries, while in at least seven nations, including Saudi Arabia, sex between men can be punished with the death penalty. This month marks the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the French and Dutch governments are using this to highlight discrimination against homosexuals. Their statement calls for an end to the execution, arrest and detention of homosexuals and transexuals. Yet there is considerable opposition to this at the UN. Socially conservative countries in the Arab world and in Africa did not want anything to do with it. The US was the only major Western nation not to sign the declaration. (more on the link below).
(BBC News) (New York Times)

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