Madonna Calls For Support Of Equal Rights In Malawi

Madonna – founder of Raising Malawi – is asking her fans to join her in support of equal rights and the freedom to love in the African country following the jailing of two men for 14 years for the “crime” of homosexuality.

“I am shocked and saddened by the decision made this week by the Malawian court, which sentenced two innocent men to prison,” says the singer. "As a matter of principle, I believe in equal rights for all people, no matter what their gender, race, color, religion, or sexual orientation.

“This week, Malawi took a giant step backward. The world is filled with pain and suffering; therefore, we must support our basic human right to love and be loved.

“I call upon the progressive men and women of Malawi—and around the world—to challenge this decision in the name of human dignity and equal rights for all.”