LA Protest Against Ugandan Antigay Bill

Demonstrators will converge on Los Angeles City Hall Thursday night to protest what organizers are calling the "gay genocide in Uganda."

Organized by high school student Laura Smith and including attendees like gay rights activist Robin Tyler, the event is intended to bring light to proposed antigay legislation in Uganda. The bill, currently under consideration, would prosecute homosexuality harshly and also penalize heterosexual people who don't report on gay gatherings and relationships. It includes a death penalty provision for those who have gay sex repeatedly or transmit HIV.

"There are many people who still have no idea that this legislation exists, and we need to raise awareness within our communities," Smith said in a press release. "It is crucial that we speak out to prevent the legalization of government-sanctioned slaughter."

The protest begins at 6 p.m. at the south entrance to City Hall.