Cuba

 

Disclaimer: This information on the situation of homosexuals all over the world may not be completely accurate or up-to-date. The information is gathered on the Internet and in other publications. If you have any additional information, corrections, comments or suggestions, don't hesitate to contact me at   <never@heterosexual.com>

 
Updated 98-03-17

During the Pope's recent visit (January '98) to Cuba, authorities said they did not want to hide anything from Pope John Paul II. Female prostitutes were allowed to continue their trade, but the underground nightclubs which are popular among gays were shut down. Cuban authorities often insist that there is no persecution of homosexuals in Cuba, but the police is known to raid popular gay meeting places. 

Homosexuality is mentioned in article 203 of the Cuban Penal Code, being punishable with up to one year in prison for its manifestation in public. The true situation however is quite arbitrary. There are no real gay meeting establishments, but private parties called "10 Pesos" (cost of admission).  A system of "warnings" exists for Cuban gays who are identified at these places (a third written warning can mean a prison term).  Nevertheless, despite such arbitrary police practice, in the last few years there has been a shift towards greater tolerance of gay parties and gatherings. (Source: ILGA) 

Reports have been made that the Cuban Association of Gays and Lesbians, which was formed in 1994, has been squashed and its members taken into custody from their places of employment. 

If you have any further information on the current situation in Cuba, please contact me.  
 

The Official Site of the Republic of Cuba 

Surely there must be some sites with info on the gay situation in Cuba, or gay Cubans living abroad. If you know of one, please e-mail the link to me!