Opinion by Chisom Peter Job. Chisom is a writer and editor. He writes on sex, lifestyle, tech, and culture.

If there is one thing that unites a lot of Nigerians, it is hatred toward queer people. Religion is the basis for a good amount of this. Homophobic Nigerians are quick to tell you how the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed because of homosexuality.

For the past several weeks, Nigerians have been protesting against police brutality, taking aim at a particularly violent police unit, the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, known as SARS. The protests have been some of the largest demonstrations in Nigeria in recent times. Taking to both the streets and social media, queer Nigerians are not just demanding the end of SARS but also taking great risks in letting Nigerians know that Queer Lives Matter, too, and that the movement should be inclusive for all.

With the #EndSARS protests, queer Nigerians have been out in the open on the front lines. Groups have started a safe house for Nigerian queer protesters and have helped pay medical bills for those who end up injured. A few days ago, I spoke with my friend who took part in protests in Lagos with placards that bore the Queer Lives Matter hashtag. She said: “I am part of history. Not just pertaining to the SARS movement, but I am among those who defied queerphobia and joined people like me in the streets, letting the others know that we are going to be here for a long time.” Read more via Washington Post