JournalRAGE Liberia

Online Platform Dedicated to Love. Equality, and Human Rights in Liberia

She Was Walking Home From a Birthday Party. A Man With a Cutlass Nearly Killed Her.

She Was Walking Home From a Birthday Party. A Man With a Cutlass Nearly Killed Her.

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A 20-year-old trans woman was brutally attacked in New Kru Town. The case was settled in the community for $120. Her attacker remains at large. By Patrick Gogo MONROVIA — She was walking home just before dawn, alone, after a friend's all-night birthday party near Club 18 in New Kru Town. It was around 5:30 a.m. on June 6 when a man she did not know stopped her, accused … [Read more...] about She Was Walking Home From a Birthday Party. A Man With a Cutlass Nearly Killed Her.

Editorial: Who Is Joseph Smith, and What Exactly Is He Asking Liberians to Believe?

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There is a church growing faster in Liberia than almost anywhere else on earth, and most of us could not tell you the first true thing about the man whose name sits behind it. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has gone from fewer than a hundred members in Monrovia in 1986 to more than twenty thousand today, with a temple now promised for the city. Missionaries … [Read more...] about Editorial: Who Is Joseph Smith, and What Exactly Is He Asking Liberians to Believe?

THE TELECOM THAT CROWNED A GIRL “CEO FOR A DAY” SPONSORED THE CONFERENCE THAT WOULD TELL HER TO STAY HOME

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An Open Editorial to Lonestar Cell MTN and MTN MoMo on Co-Sponsoring the Strengthening Families Conference JOURNALRAGE EDITORIAL BOARD  ·  MONROVIA, LIBERIA  ·  JUNE 2026 In March 2026, Lonestar Cell MTN put a 12th-grade student named Beauty Harleyson behind the CEO’s desk at its Monrovia headquarters for a day. She had earned it — top performer in a … [Read more...] about THE TELECOM THAT CROWNED A GIRL “CEO FOR A DAY” SPONSORED THE CONFERENCE THAT WOULD TELL HER TO STAY HOME

THE BANK THAT SIGNED THE UN WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT PRINCIPLES AND THE UNIVERSITY THAT SHAPES YOUNG MINDS — BOTH ON THE WRONG BANNER

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An Open Editorial to Ecobank Liberia and BlueCrest University on Their Decision to Co-Sponsor the Strengthening Families Conference JOURNALRAGE EDITORIAL BOARD  ·  MONROVIA, LIBERIA  ·  JUNE 2026 There are contradictions that are merely awkward. And then there are contradictions that are so precise, so complete, and so damaging that they require a … [Read more...] about THE BANK THAT SIGNED THE UN WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT PRINCIPLES AND THE UNIVERSITY THAT SHAPES YOUNG MINDS — BOTH ON THE WRONG BANNER

THE ROOFTOP WHERE A YOUNG LIBERIAN WOMAN WAS SEXUALLY ASSAULTED IS THE SAME ROOFTOP WHERE YOU NOW CELEBRATE FAMILY VALUES.

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An Open Editorial to Royal Grand Hotel and Orange Liberia on Their Decision to Co-Sponsor the Strengthening Families Conference JOURNALRAGE EDITORIAL BOARD  ·  MONROVIA, LIBERIA  ·  JUNE 2026 Sponsorship is a statement. It is not a passive act. When a company puts its logo on a banner, it is saying — to its customers, to its employees, to the … [Read more...] about THE ROOFTOP WHERE A YOUNG LIBERIAN WOMAN WAS SEXUALLY ASSAULTED IS THE SAME ROOFTOP WHERE YOU NOW CELEBRATE FAMILY VALUES.

YOU SOLD YOUR VOICE TO A CHURCH THAT THINKS YOU ARE A PROBLEM

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An Open Editorial to MC Caro and TeddyRide JOURNALRAGE EDITORIAL BOARD  ·  MONROVIA, LIBERIA  ·  JUNE 2026 We have spent weeks documenting what is coming to Monrovia on June 19. We have traced the money from Salt Lake City to the EJS Ministerial Complex. We have published the doctrine that defines Liberian single mothers as deficient. We have … [Read more...] about YOU SOLD YOUR VOICE TO A CHURCH THAT THINKS YOU ARE A PROBLEM

THE MINISTER WHO OPENED THE DOOR

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How Sara Beysolow Nyanti’s Pilgrimage to Salt Lake City is Enabling a Utah Institution’s Racist “Family Values” to Erode a Generation of Liberian Women’s Gains BY JOURNALRAGE | INVESTIGATIVE DESK | MONROVIA There is a photograph that circulates on a Mormon church website. In it, Sara Beysolow Nyanti — Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dean of the Cabinet, ordained … [Read more...] about THE MINISTER WHO OPENED THE DOOR

126 YEARS

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A Timeline of LDS Racial Exclusion and What It Means That This Institution Is Now Coming to Define the African Family BY JOURNALRAGE | INVESTIGATIVE DESK | MONROVIA Before you attend the 8th Strengthening Families Conference at the EJS Exhibition Complex in Monrovia on June 19–20, 2026, there is a number you need to know. 126. That is how many years the Church of … [Read more...] about 126 YEARS

LIBERIA’S WOMEN’S ORGANIZATIONS HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY

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The Gains Are Real. The Threat Is Real. And the Women Who Built This Movement Are Not Going to Watch a Utah Church Undo It in Two Days. They did not build this in a conference hall. They built it in courtrooms, in market squares, in legislative chambers, in the rubble of post-war Liberia, and on the floors of international summits where they insisted that Liberian women be … [Read more...] about LIBERIA’S WOMEN’S ORGANIZATIONS HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY

Inter-Religious Council Rejects ‘Strengthening Families’ Conference

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Festus Mckeen  MONROVIA--The Inter-Religious Council of Liberia has publicly distanced itself from the planned "Strengthening Families Conference," while simultaneously urging legislators to prioritize the swift passage of the draft Public Health Law. The ‘Strengthening Families Conference’ is an offshoot of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The … [Read more...] about Inter-Religious Council Rejects ‘Strengthening Families’ Conference

Twice Displaced, Still Stigmatized: One Woman’s Fight After Being Outed as HIV Positive generate an image for that

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By Aaron Quoi with journalRAGE Sanniquellie-She used to sell dried fish by the roadside in Sanniquelle City, laugh with her friends, completed vocation training in catering and dream of entering the Nimba University. Today, Evelyn Kpo, name changed to hide her identity, hides in her rented room, afraid to walk in the streets of the city she once called home. “People … [Read more...] about Twice Displaced, Still Stigmatized: One Woman’s Fight After Being Outed as HIV Positive generate an image for that

FROM THE EDITORIAL BOARD: THEY ARE NOT HERE FOR YOUR FAMILY!

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They Are Here for Your Women. A Utah-based church with a 126-year history of racial exclusion is coming to Monrovia to define what your family is — and to punish you if it doesn’t fit their template. What did our Foreign Minister agree to in Salt Lake City? Listen carefully to the language they will use when they arrive in Monrovia in June 2026. They will talk about … [Read more...] about FROM THE EDITORIAL BOARD: THEY ARE NOT HERE FOR YOUR FAMILY!

Unanswered Questions Along the Liberia–Guinea Border

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By Festus McKeen Communities along the Liberia–Guinea border are gradually returning home after a brief but significant wave of displacement in Lofa County, but critical questions remain about how and why hundreds were forced to flee. The incident, which affected residents of Sorluma in Foya District, reportedly began in March amid rising tensions linked to a land dispute … [Read more...] about Unanswered Questions Along the Liberia–Guinea Border

From Darkness to Defense: The Journey of Atty. Joshua B. Shadrach 

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By Melvin Jackson In a country where disability is often misunderstood, Atty. Joshua B. Shadrach is building a legal career that many once said was impossible. Seated confidently and speaking with calm conviction, the visually impaired attorney recently received an appointment as public defense counsel at the Ganta City Court, where he will represent indigent defendants — … [Read more...] about From Darkness to Defense: The Journey of Atty. Joshua B. Shadrach 

Five Women Arrested for Alleged Trafficking of 14 Children to Burkina Faso

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By Melvin Jackson Monrovia — What began as a promise of hope has turned into a troubling case now before Liberia’s courts, involving five women accused of attempting to traffic fourteen children out of the country. Months ago, Halimatu Daramy, Fanta Doe, Hawa Kamara, Henrietta Beaye, and Grace H. Sesay allegedly agreed to pursue what they believed was a resettlement … [Read more...] about Five Women Arrested for Alleged Trafficking of 14 Children to Burkina Faso

Intersex and Invisible: Two Young Liberians Battle Stigma, Isolation, and Lack of Care

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By Ansu Kamara GANTA, Nimba County – Two young intersex individuals in Nimba County are issuing a desperate plea for medical intervention and government protection as they face extreme social ostracization, physical pain, and deepening psychological distress. Prince Domah, 17, and Elfrieda Kpah, 25, whose names have been changed to protect identities,  say their … [Read more...] about Intersex and Invisible: Two Young Liberians Battle Stigma, Isolation, and Lack of Care

Leveling the Playing Field: Advocates Push For Inclusion in Liberia’s Sport Spaces

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By Siaway T. Miapue – siawaytmiapue@gmail.com  Fans gather for a 2025 County Sports Meet match where accessibility remains a challenge for many persons with disabilities. Paynesville— On a vibrant match day in December, football fans surged into the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Stadium in Paynesville. County flags fly, drums boom, and supporters sing in unison, buoyed … [Read more...] about Leveling the Playing Field: Advocates Push For Inclusion in Liberia’s Sport Spaces

After the United Nations Human Rights Council Review, LGBTQI+ Protection Remains Fragile

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By Festus Y. McKeen Paynesville–A year ago, Morris, a young gay man from Duport Road whose name has been changed to protect his identity, agreed to meet a stranger he thought was a new friend.  Instead, it was a trap.  He was severely beaten and threatened after being accused of being gay. He narrowly escaped, but the palpable fear of exposure, stigma and … [Read more...] about After the United Nations Human Rights Council Review, LGBTQI+ Protection Remains Fragile

Editorial: A New Chapter for Youth and Sports and the Imperative of Inclusion

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The appointment of Cornelia W. Kruah as Liberia’s Minister of Youth and Sports comes at a decisive moment for a nation whose future is young, energetic, and increasingly demanding of inclusion and fairness. journalRAGE welcomes her appointment with confidence in her professionalism, legal grounding, and long standing commitment to institutional responsibility, qualities … [Read more...] about Editorial: A New Chapter for Youth and Sports and the Imperative of Inclusion

Grieving Mother Seeks Justice for Son ‘Murdered for Being Gay’

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By Fidelis Togba & Jurael S. Cole Johnsonville–August 9, 2025 is a day Roseline Tamba says she will never forget. A seller of used clothes in the bustling Redlight market, 49-year-old Roseline had just returned home after a long day of haggling with customers and collecting outstanding debts. She settled into her small living room, hoping for a quiet evening. But her … [Read more...] about Grieving Mother Seeks Justice for Son ‘Murdered for Being Gay’

Une mère endeuillée réclame justice pour son fils tué parce qu’il était gay

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Par Fidelis Togba & Jurael S. Cole Johnsonville — Le 9 août 2025 est un jour que Roseline Tamba dit ne jamais pouvoir oublier. Vendeuse de vêtements d’occasion au marché animé de Redlight, Roseline, 49 ans, venait de rentrer chez elle après une longue journée à marchander avec des clients et à recouvrer des dettes. Elle s’était installée dans son petit salon, espérant … [Read more...] about Une mère endeuillée réclame justice pour son fils tué parce qu’il était gay

Une femme séropositive affirme que la divulgation de son statut a déclenché la stigmatisation et lui a coûté ses moyens de subsistance à Karnplay

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Par Ansu Kamara et Patrick Gogoe Karnplay, comté de Nimba — Une femme vivant avec le VIH à Karnplay affirme que son statut médical confidentiel a été divulgué sans son consentement, déclenchant une stigmatisation généralisée qui a bouleversé ses moyens de subsistance, sa scolarité et sa vie sociale, selon ses propres déclarations et celles de personnes au fait de … [Read more...] about Une femme séropositive affirme que la divulgation de son statut a déclenché la stigmatisation et lui a coûté ses moyens de subsistance à Karnplay

Pourquoi les accusations de sodomie progressent plus rapidement que les affaires de viol au Liberia

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Par George Kronnisanyon Werner Deux accusations récentes ont mis en lumière une vérité inconfortable sur la manière dont le Liberia réagit aux crimes sexuels commis contre des enfants. Dans un cas, un vice-ministre au ministère de la Jeunesse et des Sports a été accusé d’avoir violé une fille mineure. Dans un autre, un haut responsable de l’Agence nationale de sécurité a été … [Read more...] about Pourquoi les accusations de sodomie progressent plus rapidement que les affaires de viol au Liberia

Why Sodomy Allegations Move Faster Than Rape Cases in Liberia

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By George Kronnisanyon Werner Two recent allegations have exposed an uncomfortable truth about how Liberia responds to sexual crimes against children. In one case, a Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Youth and Sports was accused of raping a minor girl. In another, a senior official of the National Security Agency was accused of sexually abusing a minor boy. Both cases … [Read more...] about Why Sodomy Allegations Move Faster Than Rape Cases in Liberia

HIV-Positive Woman Says Status Disclosure Triggered Stigma, Cost Her Livelihood in Karnplay

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By Ansu Kamara and Patrick Gogoe Karnplay, Nimba County–A woman living with HIV in Karnplay says her confidential medical status was disclosed without her consent, triggering widespread stigma that upended her livelihood, education and social life, according to accounts from the woman and people familiar with the matter. The woman, identified as Kou to protect her … [Read more...] about HIV-Positive Woman Says Status Disclosure Triggered Stigma, Cost Her Livelihood in Karnplay

Éditorial: La Honte à PAI ILGA Un Leadership Incapable Même de Rendre des Comptes

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Il y a des moments dans la construction d’un mouvement où la vérité doit être dite sans fard, sans diplomatie timide, sans peur de froisser quelqu’un. Ce qui s’est passé lors de la récente réunion de PAI ILGA n’est pas simplement embarrassant. C’est une tache, une honte éclatante, sur une institution qui prétend défendre la justice, la dignité et la libération queer à travers … [Read more...] about Éditorial: La Honte à PAI ILGA Un Leadership Incapable Même de Rendre des Comptes

Editorial: The Shame at PAI-ILGA and the Crisis of Accountability We Can No Longer Ignore

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There comes a time when silence becomes complicity, when looking away becomes endorsement, and when polite diplomacy becomes the very lubricant that keeps dysfunction running smoothly. That time has arrived for PAI-ILGA under the leadership of Nate Brown. What unfolded in Johannesburg at the PAI-ILGA 7th Regional Conference was not just embarrassing, it was a stinking … [Read more...] about Editorial: The Shame at PAI-ILGA and the Crisis of Accountability We Can No Longer Ignore

Editorial: When Public Health Communication Becomes Public Harm

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The National AIDS Commission must urgently rethink how it communicates HIV data to the Liberian public. The problem is not the release of information itself. The problem is the theatrical alarm that accompanies it. Each new report is delivered with language and posture that amplify fear, deepen panic and reinforce the dangerous myth that people living with HIV are walking … [Read more...] about Editorial: When Public Health Communication Becomes Public Harm

Infantile Curiosity

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By Reuben Rambo If I were a cartoon character, it would be Moana. I would sail across the ocean to find my purpose. If I were a cartoon character, it would be Peter Pan. I would rescue children from Gaza and take them to Neverland. If I were a cartoon character, it would be Tinker Bell. I would use my extraordinary abilities to solve the problems of the world. If I … [Read more...] about Infantile Curiosity

Transwoman Brutally Assaulted by Community Members in Ganta

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By Reuben Giahque, Dean Aidan, Delvin Doepoh, Reanel Gono, and Ansu Kamara Ganta-A 26-year-old transwoman, identified by the pseudonym Angel, was violently assaulted by community members in Ganta, Nimba County, for her perceived homosexuality. The brutal attack, which occurred on the night of June 21, 2025, has reignited concern about discrimination and violence faced by … [Read more...] about Transwoman Brutally Assaulted by Community Members in Ganta

Viral Video Exposes Police Silence, Facebook’s Failures on LGBTQ+ Safety

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Melvin Jackson with journalRAGE Monrovia–The spokesperson of the Liberia National Police, Cecelia G. Clarke said they are aware of the viral naked video of a teenage boy suspected of being gay from Maryland County which was posted on Facebook.  However, the Police spokesperson sought to downplay the issue by intimating that she does not want her name associated with … [Read more...] about Viral Video Exposes Police Silence, Facebook’s Failures on LGBTQ+ Safety

Teen Lured, Stripped Naked in Suspected Anti-Gay Attack; INCHR Demands Justice

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By Melvin Jackson with journalRAGE Harper – A boy, believed to be a teenager in Harper, Maryland County, who is accused of being gay, has been posted on Facebook stark naked in a video. The incident, which reportedly happened last week, went viral, garnering thousands of views on the social media platform. The boy, Andrew, a resident of Pleebo whose name has been … [Read more...] about Teen Lured, Stripped Naked in Suspected Anti-Gay Attack; INCHR Demands Justice

Advocating Against the Odds: Festus McKeen’s Fight for Health and Human Rights in Liberia

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2019 EXPERT PROGRAMMATIC AND TECHNICAL SUMMIT: From left to right Pepukai CHIKUKWA, then UNAIDS Liberia Country Director/ Wilhelmina Jallah, then Liberia Minister of Health/ Festus Mckeen, then Enda Sante AYP Communication Liason CSIH/WCA (Senegal, Nigeria, and Liberia) Theodosia Kolee, then Liberia’s National AIDS Commissioner Monrovia – In a time of global health … [Read more...] about Advocating Against the Odds: Festus McKeen’s Fight for Health and Human Rights in Liberia

Editorial: President Trump’s Patronizing Praise of Liberia’s President Reveals a Glaring Ignorance of History

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In yet another example of his long-running pattern of condescension cloaked in backhanded compliments, U.S. President Donald Trump recently commended Liberian President Joseph Boakai for speaking “beautiful English.” On the surface, this may seem like harmless praise, perhaps even an attempt at diplomacy. But scratch just beneath that surface, and the comment reeks of … [Read more...] about Editorial: President Trump’s Patronizing Praise of Liberia’s President Reveals a Glaring Ignorance of History

A Cry for Change: The Struggle of an LGBTQI Individual in Liberia, a Country where Identity Is Criminalized.

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By SLY XAM In Liberia, being an LGBTQI person is not only stigmatized but also criminalized. The very systems entrusted with protecting all citizens instead become sources of discrimination and oppression. This harsh reality fosters an environment of fear, depression, and hopelessness among members of the LGBTQI community who are denied basic human rights and … [Read more...] about A Cry for Change: The Struggle of an LGBTQI Individual in Liberia, a Country where Identity Is Criminalized.

Loneliness Is a B!tch!

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By Kumenjue Nimely I’ve lived and seen it all.The protests. The clandestine meetings. The joy of finding community, even if only in shadows. The heartbreak of betrayal. The sting of rejection. The empty bed at night.Still, the silence echoes loudest.Loneliness is a b!tch. And for a gay man in Liberia, it’s a relentless companion, one that arrives uninvited and overstays its … [Read more...] about Loneliness Is a B!tch!

Editorial: Iran–Liberia’s First UN Challenge

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Just weeks into Liberia’s historic tenure on the United Nations Security Council, the world finds itself staring into the abyss of yet another avoidable conflict. Less than a fortnight ago, Israel launched a direct military strike on Iran, dragging an already tense region closer to full-scale war. While the justifications are being loudly trumpeted in Tel Aviv and quietly … [Read more...] about Editorial: Iran–Liberia’s First UN Challenge

Guest Editorial: Liberia Has Won the UN Security Council; now what?

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K Forh Yancy, contributing writer In a historic diplomatic breakthrough, Liberia has secured a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2025–2026 term. The victory is a moment of pride for a country still healing from the scars of civil war and navigating the challenges of development, governance, and human rights.  For Liberia, this is more … [Read more...] about Guest Editorial: Liberia Has Won the UN Security Council; now what?

The Billionaire Club: Misconceptions and Mysticism Around Liberia’s Fraternities

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Gboko Stewart, gboko90@gmail.com Can somebody please, for the life of me, explain why a family member of a young man, who was a member of the Ancient Order of Free and Accepted Masons, would refer to it as the “Billionaire Club” during the vote of thanks at his funeral? His reference to “Billionaire Club “ is the title of a Nigerian film about poor men engaging in … [Read more...] about The Billionaire Club: Misconceptions and Mysticism Around Liberia’s Fraternities

Voices of the Unheard: Deaf Community Struggles for Justice in Liberia 

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By Elbie Sebleh Monrovia–Access to justice is an uphill battle for Harrison T. Gardea, a student of the AME University in Monrovia.  Gardea, 35, suffers from a loss of hearing. He is amongst many who make up the deaf community in Liberia, a community that has decried being trapped in silence in a quest to seek justice.  Speaking via a sign language … [Read more...] about Voices of the Unheard: Deaf Community Struggles for Justice in Liberia 

Mushin Hendricks–Brave, Loving And Peaceful

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org When Muhsin Hendricks stood before us in Cape Town and introduced himself as the world’s first openly gay Imam, my grieving mind went blank. Though I was in the picturesque South African city that seemed European than it is African, I was still grieving my mom who had passed in August on the eve of my birthday. And so when Imam … [Read more...] about Mushin Hendricks–Brave, Loving And Peaceful

Trump’s Inaugural Speech Sparks Transphobic Attacks in Liberia

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Gboko Stewart & Ibrahim Kaba with journalRAGE Monrovia–When US President Donald Trump remarked during his inaugural address on Monday, January 20, that his government would recognize two genders, male and female, Serina Nimely, a transwoman in a slum community downtown Monrovia said she was overcome with fear and tears.  “I cried over it as well,” said Serina, … [Read more...] about Trump’s Inaugural Speech Sparks Transphobic Attacks in Liberia

Public Schools ‘Unfriendly’ For PWDs in Margibi

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By Melvin Jackson with journalRAGE Margibi--Beatrice Myers, 15,  had yet to learn her dream of becoming a medical doctor after secondary school would come to an intermittent halt before it began.  A former 5th-grade student at the Dolo Town Public School in Margibi County, and as well as a physically challenged person, Myers dropped out of school when it became … [Read more...] about Public Schools ‘Unfriendly’ For PWDs in Margibi

Global survey of the LGBTQI+ community receives over 40,000 responses…

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[Lancaster, PA] -- The F&M Global Barometers, a research organization tracking the state of LGBTQI+ rights in 204 countries and based out of Franklin & Marshall College, needs your help! The F&M Global Barometers Perception Index (GBPI) is a groundbreaking survey which documents the lived human rights reality of the global LGBTQI+ community. The perception index … [Read more...] about Global survey of the LGBTQI+ community receives over 40,000 responses…

Pregnant and Parched: The Desperate Plea for Safe Drinking Water in Rural Liberia 

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By Siaway T. Miapue- siawaytmaipue@gmail.com with JournalRage  Forzohn’s Residents used the creek water to cook, quench their thirst, and keep them alive—but at a cost- Photo: Siaway T. Miapue FORZON, Margibi- Water is life. Yet for Forzohn, a small rural town in lower Margibi County, the shimmering creek they depend on is a source of sickness and despair. On … [Read more...] about Pregnant and Parched: The Desperate Plea for Safe Drinking Water in Rural Liberia 

CDC’s Fmr Chair’s House Caretaker Targets Gays 

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org  Monrovia–The caretaker of the house of the former CDC Chairman, Mulbah Morlu, has threatened to burn down the homes of several individuals suspected of being gay in a community along the Tubman Boulevard, a video obtained by journalRAGE has shown.  According to one of the victims who chose to be anonymous, the caretaker … [Read more...] about CDC’s Fmr Chair’s House Caretaker Targets Gays 

Mercurial Warlord, Cum Senator, Passes Away Without Being Held Accountable

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By Ibrahim Kaba Monrovia–Former warlord and Nimba County Senator, Prince Y. Johnson, 72, has died. According to family sources, the Senator experienced a fall in the bathroom at his home on Wednesday, November 27, and fell into a coma. He was rushed to the Kingdom Care Hospital in Paynesville where he was pronounced dead early this morning.  The cause of his death … [Read more...] about Mercurial Warlord, Cum Senator, Passes Away Without Being Held Accountable

‘Hunger Is Killing Us’: Physically Challenged Cry For Employment

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By Elbie Sebleh    Monrovia-People with Disabilities (PWDs) make up 16 percent of Liberia’s population, according to Unicef. However, challenges continue to abound for them.  Wilfred Gewon, 47, is a visually impaired man who holds a master's in Inclusive Education from the University of Kerala in India. Despite his impressive education credentials, he … [Read more...] about ‘Hunger Is Killing Us’: Physically Challenged Cry For Employment

Editorial: Though A Thousand Fall, Let Not Speaker Koffa Be Given Up!

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These are troubling times on Capitol Hill. Troubling times indeed as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Jonathan Fonati Koffa, faces the possibility of being removed from his position by his elected colleagues because he dared to open that public body to scrutiny by insisting on an audit and as well as exposing the alteration of the budget through dubious and … [Read more...] about Editorial: Though A Thousand Fall, Let Not Speaker Koffa Be Given Up!

Lost At Home: Repatriated Liberians Face Bleak Outlook   

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Vivian Dickerson,  J. Emmanual B. Barwon, and Blessing Karna, who cannot trace their family members, are being homed at the Home of Transformation International Orphanage Home in Samukai’s Town, Caldwell.  By Tina Mehnpaine Caldwell–Starting anew in one’s homeland can sometimes be fraught with difficulties as Vivian Dickerson has now come to experience since … [Read more...] about Lost At Home: Repatriated Liberians Face Bleak Outlook   

Editorial: Is Monrovia Safe from Dusk till Dawn?

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Every day, the Liberia National Police puts on display its fleet of sedans on Monrovia’s damaged roads to show it is prepared to fight crimes and have sufficient logistics, especially during nightfall to do so. But such display of force, bravado and machismo were absent from the men and women in blue, led by experienced hands, when armed robbers killed the father of Errol … [Read more...] about Editorial: Is Monrovia Safe from Dusk till Dawn?

What A Time to Be A Journalist!

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Dear Readers These are indeed perilous times. And for us as journalists and human rights defenders, we need not lament the associative risks that move in tandem with what we do.  Over a fortnight ago, a bill was introduced on the floor of the House of Representatives in Liberia. That bill, titled the Anti-Homosexual 2024 Bill, doesn't only target the LGBTQ+ community; it … [Read more...] about What A Time to Be A Journalist!

Lifetime Imprisonment Mars Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

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By Gboko Stewart & Ibrahim Kaba Monrovia-Persons identifying as lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgenders could face a lifetime or 10-year imprisonment when they are caught engaging in same-sex sexual acts, according to the proposed Anti Homosexuality Bill 2024 that is currently before the House of Representatives.  The proposed Bill, if passed into law, would … [Read more...] about Lifetime Imprisonment Mars Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

Happy Birthday, journalRAGE!

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Dear Readers,   Wow! Five years ago, journalRAGE was launched to the world on July 22, 2019. When I set out to send our very first email, I had not the slightest inkling it would amount to what it is now. Who would? Of all the things I could do with journalism, I chose to be an outlier by focusing on the LGBTQ+ community.  Then, I was just a lone … [Read more...] about Happy Birthday, journalRAGE!

Bill Targeting LGBTQ+ Community Surfaces in Legislature; Activists Express Concern 

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Gboko Stewart & Ibrahim Kaba Monrovia-A bill targeting Liberia’s underground LGBTQ+ community has surfaced in the legislature, according to FrontPage Africa.  The bill, introduced by Rep. Johnson N. Williams, a newly-minted lawmaker of River Gee County,  calls for tougher punishment for anyone caught practicing homosexuality.  The introduction of the … [Read more...] about Bill Targeting LGBTQ+ Community Surfaces in Legislature; Activists Express Concern 

journalRAGE Launches Reporting Fellowship

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journalRAGE, Liberia’s sole digital online platform whose focus is the LGBTQ+ community, invites journalists in Liberia to apply for a Human Rights Reporting Fellowship on covering sensitive topics in human rights under the Liberia Media Empowerment Project that is being funded by the European Union via Internews. This training aims to build a cadre of journalists in Liberia … [Read more...] about journalRAGE Launches Reporting Fellowship

Lube “Shortage” Worries LGBTQ+ Community

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By Gboko Stewart Monrovia – According to members of the LGBTQ+ community, access to lubricants has become a major source of concern.  Lubricants (or “lube”) play an important role in safe sex, because they help to reduce friction - which protects condoms from breaking, and also helps prevent a person from experiencing cuts or abrasions (which can lead to an increased … [Read more...] about Lube “Shortage” Worries LGBTQ+ Community

Activist Couple Recalls Attack for LGBTQ+ Rights, SGBV

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Paynesville–An activist couple living in the suburbs of Paynesville has been alarmed over repeated threats on their lives due to their open acceptance of people from the LGBTQ+ community in Liberia.  The couple, Mr.& Mrs. Nyanti, said their calamity began in June 2023 when they posted photos on Facebook wearing apparels which … [Read more...] about Activist Couple Recalls Attack for LGBTQ+ Rights, SGBV

journalRAGE, Out for Equality Sign Partnership

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Montreal - journalRAGE and Out For Equality have signed a partnership agreement that gives the US-based organization the right to represent it as a fiscal sponsor in the United States.  Journal RAGE Media Inc is a not-for-profit online platform based in Liberia whose mission is to report properly, fairly, and  independently on the LGBTQ+ community in Liberia. It … [Read more...] about journalRAGE, Out for Equality Sign Partnership

Editorial: Stop Being The Grinch That Stole Christmas, FHI360!

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Christmas is the biggest holiday in Liberia. During the holiday season, parents spend their best on their children—purchasing their “Christmas clothes”, etc. Children, decked in their Christmas best on December 25, move around their communities in droves with their latest toys–it’s a sight to behold.  It is also a gathering and perhaps a reunion of family and friends as … [Read more...] about Editorial: Stop Being The Grinch That Stole Christmas, FHI360!

Who Killed Joshua Solomon? Police Launches Probe

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-Joshua Solomon, the flamboyant model and beauty pageant trainer who was severely beaten supposedly by partisans of the Unity Party during the just ended electoral political campaign, has passed.  Solomon, 35, a member of the outgoing Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) of President George M. Weah succumbed to his … [Read more...] about Who Killed Joshua Solomon? Police Launches Probe

Trans Woman, Gay Man Battle Family Neglect and Violence

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By Oliver Weeks  Margibi–Throughout her stay in her parents’ house in Kakata, Margibi County, Renelle Bartee, 23, endured excruciating circumstances due to her gender identity.  Renelle, a trans woman whose name has been changed to protect her identity, said she often bore the brunt of scorn and abuse from her family members.  “Some of my siblings grew angry … [Read more...] about Trans Woman, Gay Man Battle Family Neglect and Violence

Access to Justice Remains Top Concern for LGBTQ+ Community in Elections

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org  Monrovia– Liberians have voted to elect a new set of leaders who would oversee the country's affairs for the next six and nine years, respectively.  For the underground LGBT community, access to justice, healthcare, protection, respect of basic human rights continue to be issues that those seeking elected offices are … [Read more...] about Access to Justice Remains Top Concern for LGBTQ+ Community in Elections

Tense Standoff Pushed FHI360’s ‘Outing’ Victim to Suicidal Attempt, Sources Say

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia - A tense standoff meeting between lawyers representing Dominic Bropleh and the Executive Director of the National AIDS Commission could be one of the reasons he was pushed to the edge to attempt suicide, multiple sources have told journalRAGE.  A month ago, Dominic Bropleh accused FHI360 of outing his HIV status when it … [Read more...] about Tense Standoff Pushed FHI360’s ‘Outing’ Victim to Suicidal Attempt, Sources Say

FHI360’s ‘Outing’ Victim ‘Attempts’ Suicide

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia - Dominic Bropleh, the man who accused FHI360 of outing his HIV status attempted to commit suicide yesterday evening, journalRAGE has gathered.  Bropleh, according to sources on the scene, was found unresponsive near the bathroom with a ton of pills ranging from Omeprazole, Aspirin, Amoxicillin, Ampicilin-Cloaxcillin, … [Read more...] about FHI360’s ‘Outing’ Victim ‘Attempts’ Suicide

Editorial: Introspect During Pride Month for Failing the Community Thou Claim to Serve

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Today marks the official start of the beginning of Pride Month.  Pride month traces its roots in 1969 after the StoneWall Riots.  The riots, according to historical accounts, began after a police raid at StoneWall Inn, a gay bar in the Manhattan District of New York City. The riots became the last straw for the gay liberation movement across the … [Read more...] about Editorial: Introspect During Pride Month for Failing the Community Thou Claim to Serve

FHI360 Fallout – LEGAL’s PC Accuses Boss of Connivance to Fire Him, Seizing’ Employees’ Salary

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia - What appears to be a fallout over Dominic Bropleh accusing FHI360 of outing his HIV status seems to be festering as the project coordinator of LEGAL, Joe Wellington Thomas, has accused the Technical Advisor of FHI, Mrs. Cytirus Kerbay, FHI360’s Chief of Party in Liberia, Madam Nana Fosu Clement and LEGAL’s executive director, … [Read more...] about FHI360 Fallout – LEGAL’s PC Accuses Boss of Connivance to Fire Him, Seizing’ Employees’ Salary

FHI360 Takes Down Flyers Across Montserrado; Safeguarding Expert Hits Ground

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Paynesville- FHI360 has begun the removal of flyers bearing the photo of Dominic Bropleh at clinics and hospitals across Montserrado County. The removal of the flyers comes in the wake of a journalRAGE story in which the gay man accused the organization of outing his health status of being HIV positive. He said he brought it to … [Read more...] about FHI360 Takes Down Flyers Across Montserrado; Safeguarding Expert Hits Ground

FHI360 Takes Flak Online for ‘Outing’ Gay Man’s HIV Status

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia - FHI360 continues to come under a hail of criticisms by some Liberians in the country, and the diaspora following journalRAGE’s publication of a man from the LGBTQ community alleging that the organization outed his health status of being HIV positive.  Dominic Bropleh (name changed to protect identity), 32, a staff of … [Read more...] about FHI360 Takes Flak Online for ‘Outing’ Gay Man’s HIV Status

FHI360 Deploys Safeguarding Expert to Liberia 

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia - FHI360 is sending a safeguarding expert to Liberia to reinforce and strengthen its safeguarding procedures following recent reports of alleged procedural missteps, according to the global health organization in a recent statement to journalRAGE.  “A safeguarding expert is traveling to Liberia, but this individual is … [Read more...] about FHI360 Deploys Safeguarding Expert to Liberia 

GoFundMe Pops Up for Man ‘Outed’ By FHI 360

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Montreal - A GoFundMe account has been set up to help raise money for Dominic Bropleh, a Liberian whose health status was reportedly outed by global health organization FHI360.  Titled, ‘Help a Queer African Trampled Upon by FHI360’, the campaign is starting out with an initial goal of five hundred Canadian Dollars (CAD500) or … [Read more...] about GoFundMe Pops Up for Man ‘Outed’ By FHI 360

FHI360  ‘Downplayed’ Bropleh’s Concerns of Being Outed? US Embassy Investigates

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia - Days following a publication from journalRAGE that FHI360 outed the HIV status of a gay man in Monrovia, a project coordinator from one of its implementing partners speaking on the condition of strict anonymity for fear of reprisals, has confirmed the matter.  “I am surprised that from last year till now, they did not … [Read more...] about FHI360  ‘Downplayed’ Bropleh’s Concerns of Being Outed? US Embassy Investigates

US Gov’t Takes Steps to Protect LGBTQI Rights Globally

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org New York- The continual targeting of the people perceived to be from the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex community across the world has drawn the ire of the United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield. Addressing the UN Security Council Arria-Formula Meeting on Integrating the Human … [Read more...] about US Gov’t Takes Steps to Protect LGBTQI Rights Globally

Gang Uses Senator’s Photo To Target Gay Men on Facebook

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Paynesville-For Abe Johnson (name changed to protect his identity), it was a dream two months ago in January—a friend request from a fake Facebook account, Ashford Horton, with the profile picture of a Senator was all too real. “I had seen the friend request, but I was not sure if I should accept it,” he says. Giving the fake … [Read more...] about Gang Uses Senator’s Photo To Target Gay Men on Facebook

Queer Liberians Dodge COVID Vaccine Due to Lack of Info

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         ` Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Bushrod Island-It’s a mild Wednesday afternoon in October 2022 in a slum community on Bushrod Island when Rukiatu Barry, beaming with smiles and no longer held by fear of the unknown, walks into the town hall to listen to awareness on COVID-19 vaccination being carried out by Sisters 4 … [Read more...] about Queer Liberians Dodge COVID Vaccine Due to Lack of Info

‘Plot’ To Kill Journalist Covering LGBT Community Unravels, FrontPage Africa Reveals

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Monrovia – FrontPageAfrica has reliably learnt of an alleged plan by a former soldier of the Armed Forces of Liberia, Cheeseman Cole, to possibly eliminate the Curator-in-Chief of journalRAGE, Gboko Stewart.  journalRAGE is an online news platform founded by Gboko Stewart in 2019 to report exclusively on the LGBT community in Liberia. The news … [Read more...] about ‘Plot’ To Kill Journalist Covering LGBT Community Unravels, FrontPage Africa Reveals

Family Seeks Closure, Survivors Yearn for Justice from Brutality of ex-soldier

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Barnesville-It has been two years since the disappearance of Dominic Renner and Winston Toe on September 24 and October 4, 2020. For Emmanuel Renner, father of Dominic Renner, Thursday, September 24—the last day he saw his eldest son—continues to live in infamy. “It’s kind of hard because things went bad when Dominic went missing,” … [Read more...] about Family Seeks Closure, Survivors Yearn for Justice from Brutality of ex-soldier

LEN Unveils Livelihood Training For Trans Women, Queer Men 

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org  Monrovia-The Liberia Equality Network has launched a livelihood training program targeting underprivileged trans women and queer men in slum communities across Monrovia.  LEN is a human rights organization that advocates for marginalized groups.  The program, which includes training in beauty and cosmetology, baking … [Read more...] about LEN Unveils Livelihood Training For Trans Women, Queer Men 

Letter from the Curator: Absence of Justice for LGBT People in Liberia

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Dear World:   Living in Liberia as a lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender person often means your right or access to justice is ignored and trampled upon in plain sight.  For background, I am the Curator-in-Chief of journalRAGE, an online news outlet whose focus is on the rainbow issues in Liberia.  On August 23, at about 10 pm, a member of … [Read more...] about Letter from the Curator: Absence of Justice for LGBT People in Liberia

journalRAGE Reporter Faces New Attack Following Robbery

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Monrovia-Barely less than a week following a robbery attack against him, journalRAGE’s reporter, Abel Sumo, has come under new attacks at his residence.   Sumo (name changed to protect his identity), 32, was attacked during the early morning hours of August 24 when the roof of his apartment was pelted with a hail of stones by angry youths in his Sinkor … [Read more...] about journalRAGE Reporter Faces New Attack Following Robbery

‘Intent and Desire to Commit Homosexuality’: Officer Charges journalRage Reporter, Seizes Curator’s Phone

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Paynesville-An undercover reporter of journalRAGE who was wrongly charged with ‘intent and desire to commit homosexuality’ when he took a complaint of robbery against a suspect has seen his charges dropped with the main suspect being properly charged.  Abel Sumo, 32 (name changed to protect his identity) was initially charged with ‘intent to commit homosexuality’ by … [Read more...] about ‘Intent and Desire to Commit Homosexuality’: Officer Charges journalRage Reporter, Seizes Curator’s Phone

Liberian Fashion Designer Builds Ethical Brand in Australia

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I was concerned at an early age [about] what I was always wearing as a child, I knew I was a creative person. My late mother loved fashion, colors. I knew I wanted to design clothes for the world in my early years. I have loved artistic work from my early years. My late brother, Nahnkarmu, was a great artist - he could draw anything you ask him - he did brilliant … [Read more...] about Liberian Fashion Designer Builds Ethical Brand in Australia

Court Sentences Anderson to Life Imprisonment for Tubman’s Murder

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia- Christian Byron Anderson, the chief suspect in the murder investigation of John Hilary Tubman who was found guilty on June 29, has been sentenced to life imprisonment by Judge Roosevelt Willie of Criminal Court A, according to the New Dawn Newspaper.  Anderson, 30, had been on trial after being linked as the prime … [Read more...] about Court Sentences Anderson to Life Imprisonment for Tubman’s Murder

Jury Finds Suspect Guilty in Tubman’s Murder, ‘Accomplices’ Off The Hook

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-Christian Byron Anderson, the prime suspect in the murder investigation of John Hilary Tubman, has been found guilty of murder, according to the Inquirer Newspaper.  Anderson’s verdict was read in Criminal Court A, Montserrado County where he had been ontrial for the murder of Tubman. The paper stated that Anderson’s guilty … [Read more...] about Jury Finds Suspect Guilty in Tubman’s Murder, ‘Accomplices’ Off The Hook

Gay Rape Is Not Sex!

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By Stephanie C. Horton I define freedom as ways of being human in the world that exist beyond the realm of the juridical and that allow for bodily sovereignty."— Rinaldo Walcott (The Long Emancipation, 2021)By way of background, this writer stands for gay rights in Liberia, and has written several articles that have been published online calling for an end to anti-gay … [Read more...] about Gay Rape Is Not Sex!

Details Emerge on the Planning of Tubman’s Murder

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Gboko Stewart, gboko90@gmail.com  Monrovia - The alleged murder of John Hilary Tubman, son of former Liberian President, William V.S. Tubman, by Christian Byron Anderson, Emmanuel M. Forkey, and Aloysius Garblah was meticulously planned and orchestrated, according to a copy of the indictment by the Grand Jurors of Montserrado County which was obtained by … [Read more...] about Details Emerge on the Planning of Tubman’s Murder

JournalRAGE News Curator Appeals For Support

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By Albert Jones Monrovia – Gboko Stewart, News Curator of the esteemed online human rights news outlet, journalRage, says he needs help and support in order to continue providing unbiased and much-needed coverage of the LGBT community in Liberia. “I do need support to be able to continue what I do,” he said in an interview. “Currently the laptop which I … [Read more...] about JournalRAGE News Curator Appeals For Support

Suspect Claims ‘Sexual Harassment’ in the Murder Investigation of John Tubman

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-Christian Byron Anderson, 29, the prime suspect who has been on the run in the murder investigation of John H. Tubman, said he was tampered with by the deceased, coercing him to retaliate and commit the heinous act.  “The papay tampered with me and myself I went back at him—I went against him,” he said during an … [Read more...] about Suspect Claims ‘Sexual Harassment’ in the Murder Investigation of John Tubman

Gov’t Contradicts Itself in Murder Investigation of John Tubman

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia- The investigation into the murder of John Hilary Tubman, one of the sons of former Liberian President William V.S. Tubman, took a twist near the weekend when the Ministry of Justice ordered a post mortem investigation into his death and that of two others who were also discovered dead in their homes in a fashion akin to the son … [Read more...] about Gov’t Contradicts Itself in Murder Investigation of John Tubman

Police Conduct Autopsy on Former President’s Son

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 By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-An autopsy to determine the cause of death of John Tubman, son of former Liberian President, William V.S. Tubman, was conducted on Wednesday, October 13, Police spokesman, H. Moses Carter, has revealed. In a telephone interview, the spokesman of the Liberia National Police highlighted that they are awaiting the … [Read more...] about Police Conduct Autopsy on Former President’s Son

Editorial: Liberia ISN’T SAFE—for LGBT People

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The gruesome murder of the son of a former Liberian President continues to highlight the glaring but often ignored fact that Liberia, Africa’s oldest independent nation, is one of the dangerous places in the world for people who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT).  Liberia is amongst 71 countries that still criminalize same-sex sexual … [Read more...] about Editorial: Liberia ISN’T SAFE—for LGBT People

Police Rule Out Hate Crime in Murder of Former President’s Son

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-The Liberia National Police has ruled out the death of Mr. John Hilary Tubman as a hate crime until a coroner inquest can be performed, says Police spokesman, H. Moses Carter.  “The coroner inquest will be conducted to determine whether there was foul play,” he said. “It should have been yesterday. I am sure it will … [Read more...] about Police Rule Out Hate Crime in Murder of Former President’s Son

LGBTQ Liberian Fired From High Profile US Job

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org with New Narratives One of the most high-profile Liberians in the United States has lost his job after being caught up in the sexual harassment scandal that took down New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Alphonso David, 50, was the head of the Human Rights Campaign, the most powerful group lobbying for the rights of LGBTQ Americans, … [Read more...] about LGBTQ Liberian Fired From High Profile US Job

Ministry of Education, Methodist Church Mum on Expulsion of Teenager

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-Pressure continues to ramp up against the Trinity United Methodist School to reinstate Michael Kanneh following his expulsion from the school. However, the Ministry of Education appears not to be getting involved anytime soon as they have maintained a stony silence on the matter which has kept the Liberian social media abuzz. … [Read more...] about Ministry of Education, Methodist Church Mum on Expulsion of Teenager

Methodist School Expels Student for Cross Dressing

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-A video making the rounds on Facebook has led to the expulsion of a student of the Trinity United Methodist School in New Kru Town, drawing ire from the public.   Michael Kanneh, alias Nuchie Michael, 19, was expelled by the principal of the Trinity United Methodist School for dancing in a video which saw … [Read more...] about Methodist School Expels Student for Cross Dressing

Police Arrest Two Over Brutal Homophobic Attacks on Several Individuals in Paynesville

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Paynesville—The case of the brutalization of two men and a teenager by a community watch team in the Gobachop community of Paynesville over unfounded allegations they were gays took a twist on Tuesday, May 11, when the Liberian National Police caught the ringleader of the marauding men. David Korboi, Jr., reportedly the ringleader of … [Read more...] about Police Arrest Two Over Brutal Homophobic Attacks on Several Individuals in Paynesville

Suspected Gay Men, Teenager Brutalize in New Wave of Homophobic Attack

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Paynesville—Daniel Johnson, Richmond Jones, and Joseph David were returning from a wake keeping ceremony in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 8, in the Gobachop community of Paynesville when they were hassled and severely beaten by members of a community watch team over unfounded suspicion they were gays. Daniel (name … [Read more...] about Suspected Gay Men, Teenager Brutalize in New Wave of Homophobic Attack

Did Ex-Soldier ‘Murder’ Dominic Renner and Winston Toe for Being ‘Gay’?

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-It has been nearly five months since Dominic Renner and Winston Toe went missing on September 24, 2020, and October 4, 2020, respectively.  There appears to be no end in sight in the case of the missing men. The only clue of their whereabouts lies with Cheeseman Cole, an ex-soldier of the Armed Forces of Liberia who was … [Read more...] about Did Ex-Soldier ‘Murder’ Dominic Renner and Winston Toe for Being ‘Gay’?

New Online Course: Media Advocacy for LGBTQI+ Equality in Sub-Saharan Africa

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Taboom Media, a global media development and monitoring group, invites you to apply for a spot in our upcoming week-long Media Advocacy for LGBTQI+ Equality workshop. This free and interactive course aims to help civil society organisations from across Sub-Saharan Africa create and implement media advocacy strategies and campaigns that advance LGBTQI+ equality. The course is … [Read more...] about New Online Course: Media Advocacy for LGBTQI+ Equality in Sub-Saharan Africa

Case of Alleged Brutalization of Gay Men Suffers Setback

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Monrovia-The case of the alleged brutalization and torturing of 27 men over their sexuality by Cheeseman Cole, ex-personnel of the Armed Forces of Liberia, continues to suffer setbacks as there appears to be a grave lack of interest on the part of the Ministry of Justice to prosecute.  Cole has been released on bail filed by his lawyers.  The case, currently … [Read more...] about Case of Alleged Brutalization of Gay Men Suffers Setback

Ex-Soldier Charged over Brutalization of 27 Persons

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-Cheeseman Cole, ex-soldier of the Armed Forces of Liberia has been formally charged and forwarded to court. Cole has been charged with Aggravated Assault, Criminal Attempt to Commit Murder, Possession, Sale of Physical Objects for Lethal Use, Felonious Restraint, and Theft of Property, according to the charge sheet in … [Read more...] about Ex-Soldier Charged over Brutalization of 27 Persons

Did Police Shoddily Handle Investigation of Cheeseman Cole?

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-A second search of the residence of Cheeseman Cole yielded no results nor clues into the whereabouts of Dominic Renner and Winston Kortee.  On Friday, October 16, a team from the Liberia National Police accompanied by Emmanuel Renner, father of Dominic, searched the nook and cranny of Cole’s isolated home along the … [Read more...] about Did Police Shoddily Handle Investigation of Cheeseman Cole?

Mystery Over Missing Men Deepens as Police Make a Break

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-The mystery into the whereabouts of Dominic Renner and Win Kortee continues to deepen as the Liberia National Police appears to have make a break in the case. The disappearance of the duo has been strongly linked to Cheeseman Cole, ex-personnel of the army who was dishonorably discharged for acts of criminality, … [Read more...] about Mystery Over Missing Men Deepens as Police Make a Break

Police Arrest ‘AFL’ Personnel; Two Fear Dead

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-The Liberia National Police, acting on a complaint—including a writ of arrest, search and seizure warrant—from the family of a missing man and journalRAGE’s story which was lifted on FrontPage Africa, have arrested Cheeseman Cole.  Win Kortee (named modified to protect his identity) reported to be one of … [Read more...] about Police Arrest ‘AFL’ Personnel; Two Fear Dead

‘Army’ Personnel Uses God as Subterfuge to Brutalize 27 Suspected Gay Men

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Monrovia—When Gbada Flomo (name changed to protect his identity) chatted with Cheeseman Cole—a ‘personnel’ of the Armed Forces of Liberia—on Facebook, little did he know it was a booby trap meant to bait him to an obscure location to be deathly beaten and have him robbed of his belongings.   “He used a Facebook’s friend account to chat with me,” said Flomo in a state of … [Read more...] about ‘Army’ Personnel Uses God as Subterfuge to Brutalize 27 Suspected Gay Men

Fashion model to release a book on ‘coming out’ in Liberia

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org I was always scared to speak of my sexuality.”TARUS P. COLE “This represents my soul, my passion the pain in me to add value, and to grow. Most of all, it reflects the confidence and strong believe [belief] I have in myself and my potential,”TARUS P. COLE This represents a new level of self-belief. You’ll be seeing a lot of … [Read more...] about Fashion model to release a book on ‘coming out’ in Liberia

journalRAGE, others benefit from SRHR training

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-In a bid to deepen media practitioners’ knowledge on Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), the Liberia Initiative for the Promotion of Rights, Identity, and Equality (LIPRIDE) alongside Stop Aids in Liberia (SAIL), Action Aid-Liberia and the Anti-Aids Media Network conducted a two-day training workshop for a slew of … [Read more...] about journalRAGE, others benefit from SRHR training

Fundraising nets support for Trans community in Liberia

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Monrovia -An online fundraising organized to help the transgender community in Liberia has netted over CAD$400 in support of the transgender community in Liberia. The fundraising, organized by Canadian graphic designer and filmmaker, Raymond Helkio, was based on a plea from the executive director of the Trans Network of Liberia, Madam Karishma Richards-Kwofie, … [Read more...] about Fundraising nets support for Trans community in Liberia

‘Most Liberian men are gay’: Fashion model riles social media

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-Fashion model, Tarus P. Cole, has riled social media over comments that most Liberian men are gay.  “I can say—I’m not afraid to say it—99 percent of Liberian men—they are gay,” he said, though he did not provide the reliance for his statement.  In a live Facebook interview with the government-owned Liberian … [Read more...] about ‘Most Liberian men are gay’: Fashion model riles social media

From Tanzania With Love: documentary on persecuted trans artist screens in March

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Toronto-Last year Tanzanian authorities arrested fourteen LGBTQ people, jailing them for two weeks, without anyone knowing where they were. One of those people was Dayon Monson, a 24-year-old trans woman, artist and activist who went into hiding, eventually seeking asylum in Canada. Dayon originally captured the authorities attention after appearing in a remake of “Same … [Read more...] about From Tanzania With Love: documentary on persecuted trans artist screens in March

Anonymous donor defrays cost of gay man’s tuition in Liberia

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Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-A donor, who prefers not to be named, has defrayed the cost of Mohammed Sheriff’s semester 2 tuition to enable him to complete high school, following a meeting arranged by journalRAGE’s founder, Gboko Stewart.   Sheriff was accompanied to the meeting, which was held at an undisclosed location, by Alfred Jones … [Read more...] about Anonymous donor defrays cost of gay man’s tuition in Liberia

Gay man struggles to survive in Liberia amid beating and bullying

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-Mohammed Sheriff (not his real name) still remembers the day his mother disowned him when she discovered her first child was gay.  “She asked me to moved out and said I was no longer her son,” he said. “She said she can’t have a child who’s into such sexual behavior.”  Petite in height, Sheriff, 22, who had … [Read more...] about Gay man struggles to survive in Liberia amid beating and bullying

Monrovia party goers stoned and beaten over suspicion of being gay

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org Monrovia-Rocheforte Jones, (not his real name), walked into a fence in the quiet suburb of Sinkor to celebrate a friend’s 33rd birthday on Saturday, November 9, when he and others were stoned, beaten and severely wounded by community members over suspicion that they were “gays.” “It was a birthday party, not an LGBT party,” said … [Read more...] about Monrovia party goers stoned and beaten over suspicion of being gay

Fueling the rage with a tinge of kindness: A Letter from the Editor

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Dear Readers, As may of you may have come to know, we run a news service which caters to the exclusive coverage of sexual minority in Liberia, thanks to help from Prof. Ken Harper of Newhouse Center for Global Engagement at Syracuse University. This service, aptly titled journalRAGE, began over a fit of anger felt in a homophobic, biased and … [Read more...] about Fueling the rage with a tinge of kindness: A Letter from the Editor

Did PSI abandon victims of homophobic attack?

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By Gboko Stewart, gboko@journalrage.org  Monrovia-It was a rainy Saturday morning when lanky Mitch Johnson (not his real name) was chased and beaten in a quiet suburb on the outskirts of Monrovia for being gay. Johnson, 31, said he was recovering from an operation of appendicitis when he and some friends huddled in a high-walled fence during the evening hours … [Read more...] about Did PSI abandon victims of homophobic attack?

Transgender Community Mourns Loss of Cute White

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Monrovia-The Liberian transgender community is in a state of shock over the passing of trans socialite, Cute White. I worked very closely with Cute on some community activities and projects. She was dedicated not only to her work but also to the improvement of the lives of trans women in and around Liberia,” Karishma Richards-Kwofie, TNOL executive director Cute, … [Read more...] about Transgender Community Mourns Loss of Cute White

EDITORIAL: Liberia’s LGBT Community Deserves Respect of Its Pride

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Nearly a fortnight ago, Liberia’s gay community celebrated the closure of pride month at a discreet location. So discreet that it called for sexual minorities and allies to clad themselves in black to celebrate the passing of many—some of whom had died from AIDS, suicide, rape, hate crimes, discrimination , lack of access to adequate health care, lack of access to social … [Read more...] about EDITORIAL: Liberia’s LGBT Community Deserves Respect of Its Pride

MOD Launches Nationwide Campaign to Increase Women’s Participation

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The Ministry of National Defense (MOD), through the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), has launched a nationwide awareness campaign aimed at increasing the participation of women in the country's military as part of broader efforts to build a more inclusive, professional, and gender-responsive national security sector. The campaign, currently underway across Liberia's Northern … [Read more...] about MOD Launches Nationwide Campaign to Increase Women’s Participation

MoD, UN Women Launch Major Drive to Recruit More Women into AFL

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The Ministry of National Defense (MoD), in partnership with UN Women, has launched a major nationwide campaign to recruit more women into the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), setting an ambitious target of increasing female representation in the military to 40 percent by 2030 as part of efforts to build a more inclusive, professional, and gender-responsive security sector. The … [Read more...] about MoD, UN Women Launch Major Drive to Recruit More Women into AFL

Defense Ministry Launches Northern Campaign to Increase Women’s Participation in Armed Forces

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The Ministry of National Defense has intensified efforts to increase women's participation in the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), launching the northern phase of a nationwide awareness campaign aimed at addressing the country's longstanding gender imbalance within the security sector. The campaign, which officially commenced in Bong County, will continue across Lofa and Nimba … [Read more...] about Defense Ministry Launches Northern Campaign to Increase Women’s Participation in Armed Forces

Defense Ministry Lands In Grand Cape Mount

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----Seeks to Boost Women's Recruitment into the AF The Ministry of Defense, in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), Public Affairs department intensified its campaign to encourage more women and girls to pursue military careers, reaffirming the government's commitment to gender equality and greater female participation in Liberia's security sector. The … [Read more...] about Defense Ministry Lands In Grand Cape Mount

MOD Hits Nimba County, Intensifies Drive to Recruit More Women into Armed Forces of Liberia

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The Ministry of Defense, in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), Public Affairs department intensified its campaign to encourage more women and girls to pursue military careers, reaffirming the government's commitment to gender equality and greater female participation in Liberia's security sector. The call was made Thursday during a live public awareness … [Read more...] about MOD Hits Nimba County, Intensifies Drive to Recruit More Women into Armed Forces of Liberia