A Haitian LGBTI group denounced a senate vote Tuesday that passed a bill introducing rigid sanctions against gay marriage and penalizing any public or private parties supporting the union with three years in prison and a fine of US$8,000.

Charlot Jeudy, president of Kouraj — a group that defends the rights of LGBTI people — said, “We see this as an attack on the LGBT community in this country," adding, “This text divides our society, it reinforces prejudices and discrimination. It’s really a shame.”

The two gay rights organizations still officially recognized by the state record daily instances of threats, insults and violence. Politicians “know very well that this will bring much more violence and prejudice against the LGBTI community,” Jeudy said. Read more via Tele Sur