Ghanaian Gay Journalist’s Reacts to Anti-LGBT+ Bill

Ignatius Annor, a Ghanaian journalist based in the US and openly identifying as gay, has responded to Ghana’s parliament passing the anti-Lesbians, Gays, Bisexual, and Transgender Bill.

Annor, who has been open about his sexual orientation for years, shared on social media how he felt disoriented upon hearing the news, especially since he had to cover the story for his organization.

In a post, he described his heart racing and body trembling at the news. He was granted the day off to manage the overwhelming emotions. Annor highlighted a particular aspect of the Bill that personally frustrated him, aside from the broader impact on the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana.

His main concern was the potential barrier the law creates for him visiting his family in Ghana. Annor expressed worry about being able to travel back home due to the legislation. This situation added to his emotional distress,

emphasizing the personal impact of the Bill beyond its implications for the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana.

“And, most personal to me is the lost opportunity to visit my family. Here’s what I know: living in truth is the most powerful tool one has. Leah, Deirdre, Marine, and Todd, I thank you for the outpouring of love and support. They meant so much to me,” his February 29, 2024 post on X read.

Read his full post below:

Wednesday, February 28. I had finished producing a video story for socials and saw the news of Ghana’s passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill online. My heart started to beat super fast, and my body began to tremble.

It was four hours into my shift, and now I couldn’t focus. I felt my eyes beginning to well up while working on this breaking news. I picked my sunglasses and put them on. I hurried into the boss’ office after wiping the parts my glasses couldn’t hide.

I requested to take the rest of the day off, citing personal reasons. Kate, Hayde, thank you for holding me in my most vulnerable state. In that moment, I felt the pain of every Ghanaian yearning to be themselves in truth.

And, most personal to me is the lost opportunity to visit my family. Here’s what I know, living in truth is the most powerful tool one has. Leah, Deirdre, Marine, and Todd, I thank you for the outpouring of love and support. They meant so much to me.