Paper short abstract:

In what astute ways do Kenyan activists self-censor in order to align with trends in national politics and debates and does this have an influence on media coverage of homosexual tolerance in response to public opinion and events that shape national politics?

Paper long abstract:

Direct and indirect effects of criminalization and public visibility of sexual minorities in Kenya is extensively invoked when discussing tolerance and violence experienced by LGBTI persons. Religious and political leaders have evoked anti homosexuality rhetoric - as a means to 'protect' traditional and religious values further excluding and to some extent instigating violence. The Kenyan media has played a role both in sensationalizing stories related LGBTI issues, fueling the anti LGBTI rhetoric and as a platform for LGBTI activists and allies to offer counter-narratives to this exclusionary discourse.

Going against the widespread claims that visibility of sexual minorities in public domain has provoked conservative and political backlash, the LGBTI community in Kenya is in court seeking decriminalization of homosexuality. This comes amidst an election year and a president who has clearly stated that 'gay rights' are a non-issue. This paper therefore seeks to analyze the astute ways in which Kenyan activists self-censor and time their activities- either making them public or remaining silent in order to align with trends in national politics and public debate. It will also look at media coverage of homosexual tolerance in contrast to the rarely critiqued nor elaborated ways in which media adjust own messaging and presentation of sexual and gender minorities in response to public opinion and events that shape national politics.