Moroccan Campaigner Remains in Prison for Wearing "Allah is Lesbian" T-Shirt

Strategic Insights -

A Moroccan human rights activist, Ibitssam 'Betty' Lachgar, remains in prison after being arrested for wearing a t-shirt with the slogan "Allah is lesbian" and posting a photo on social media. The National Secular Society (NSS) has expressed extreme concern over her arrest and has urged the Moroccan ambassador to push for her release and the repeal of laws restricting speech about Islam. Lachgar, a well-known advocate for women's and LGBT rights, had posted the photo in response to accusations that she provokes people by saying Allah does not exist. She has received thousands of sexist insults and death threats, and her imprisonment has sparked an international outcry.

Key Takeaways:

  • Moroccan human rights activist Ibitssam 'Betty' Lachgar remains in prison after being arrested for wearing a t-shirt with the slogan "Allah is lesbian" and posting a photo on social media.
  • The National Secular Society (NSS) has expressed extreme concern over Lachgar's arrest and has urged the Moroccan ambassador to push for her release and the repeal of laws restricting speech about Islam.
  • Article 267(5) of the Moroccan Criminal Code criminalizes anyone who offends the Islamic religion, with a maximum penalty of five years and/or a fine.
  • Lachgar has received thousands of sexist insults and death threats, and her imprisonment has sparked an international outcry, with a petition gaining nearly 2,800 signatures.
  • The NSS has criticized the arrest and prosecution of Lachgar, saying it is a form of victim blaming that will encourage extremists to harass and abuse others.
  • Lachgar's trial is scheduled for August 27th, and she may be incarcerated until then. She is a cancer survivor and requires treatment, and her physical condition is described as fragile.

Statistics:

  • Article 267(5) of the Moroccan Criminal Code: As of the current text, this article remains unchanged.
  • Number of signatures on the petition: Nearly 2,800 signatures have been collected by the Amazons of Avignon feminist group.
  • Penalties for causing public outrage by criticizing Islam: According to the Moroccan Criminal Code, the maximum penalty is five years and/or a fine.

Sources:

  • National Secular Society (NSS)
  • Le Monde
  • Amazons of Avignon (petition)