Call Me Kuchu

In an unmarked office on the outskirts of Kampala, veteran gay activist David Kato labors to repeal Uganda’s homophobic laws and liberate his fellow LGBT men and women, or “kuchus.” But David’s formidable task becomes much more difficult when an “Anti-Homosexuality Bill” is introduced in Parliament proposing death for HIV-positive gay men and prison for anyone who fails to turn in a known homosexual. The bill, inspired by American evangelicals who point to Uganda as ground zero in their war on the “homosexual agenda,” awaits debate in Parliament. Meanwhile, the country’s newspapers start running stories with headlines such as: “HOMO TERROR! We Name and Shame Top Gays in the City.” David is one of the few who dare to publicly protest the country’s government and press. But just three weeks after a landmark court victory, he is found bludgeoned to death in his home. David’s murder sends shockwaves around the world and leaves Kampala’s kuchus traumatized and seeking answers for a way forward.