In brief
Despite facing formidable challenges and a hostile government, Alice Nkom remains undeterred. As the head of a human rights NGO, she fights to decriminalize homosexuality and defends those who have been marginalized by society.
Alice Nkom, a fearless lawyer in Cameroon, is at the forefront of defending LGBT rights, risking her safety and reputation in a nation where homosexuality is criminalized. At 80 years old, Nkom runs the human rights organization Redhac, which was recently suspended by the government. Facing accusations of money laundering linked to her advocacy, she emphasizes that her mission is to ensure freedom for all, particularly those who face persecution due to their sexual orientation. Dressed in her legal robe, Nkom passionately states, "I will always defend homosexuals because they are treated like criminals." Her commitment stems from witnessing the suffering of individuals oppressed by laws designed to punish them. With Cameroon’s penal code imposing up to five years for homosexual relations, Nkom has taken on high-profile cases while becoming a protector for many who feel abandoned by their families.Nkom’s journey into LGBT advocacy began in 2003 after she witnessed young people being handcuffed for being gay. This pivotal moment ignited her commitment to human rights, culminating in her founding the Association for the Defence of Homosexuality (Adefho). She has garnered recognition for defending clients such as transgender celebrity Shakiro, sentenced for “attempted homosexuality.” Such cases illustrate the dire realities for LGBT individuals in Cameroon, as attitudes have worsened amidst increasing hostility. Nkom is hopeful for change following the daughter of President Biya publicly identifying as a lesbian, using her acknowledgment to challenge anti-LGBT laws. Despite the obstacles, Nkom's relentless advocacy continues—a testament to her belief that love and freedom must prevail.
