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International Transformation Network
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Transform Our World, formerly known as the International Transformation Network (ITN) is an extreme evangelical movement which promotes treatment for homosexuals as well as miraculous healing. While a minor group in the United States, they have a significant presence worldwide, particularly in Africa. Their connection to homophobic elements in Uganda is particularly noteworthy.
Organization
The ITN is part of Harvest Evangelism, led by Ed Silvoso. As the name suggests, the main concern of ITN is the "transformation" of homosexuals into heterosexuals. In the case of ITN, this is done through exorcism via baptism. They have also placed "blessings" on cities to reduce crime and poverty, and have recorded alleged miracle healings of HIV/AIDS.
The ultimate goal of the ITN is the complete "transformation" of all elements of society. While this may be unrealistic, the ITN does hold considerable sway in the governments of some countries. For example, Silvoso has claimed that the Philippine National Police Force is directing its officers to take courses in transformation principles.[1] However, the main power base of the ITN is in Africa, with an entire branch of the organization dedicated to the continent.
The ITN and Uganda
Silvoso and the ITN have very close ties to the government of Uganda. Representatives of the ITN have met with members of the Ugandan government, including President Yoweri Museveni and his wife. MPs from the Ugandan government have appeared in videos produced by the ITN-connected Sentinel Group and attended ITN conferences.[2]
The ITN's position in Uganda is particularly troubling given the proposed Anti-Homosexuality Bill of 2009. The bill — which would add "aggravated homosexuality" and "promotion of homosexuality" to the criminal code, the former as a death penalty offense[3] — was introduced by David Bahati and Benson Obua-Ogwal, who are both connected to ITN through the College of Prayer Uganda.[4]
External links
- Official site
- Bruce Wilson's documentary Transforming Uganda
References
- ↑ Uganda's "Kill the Gays" Movement Organizing in Newark, NJ, AlterNet
- ↑ Video Exposes Antigay Western Theocratic Effort "Transforming" Uganda, Talk To Action
- ↑ Uganda: ‘Anti-Homosexuality’ Bill Threatens Liberties and Human Rights Defenders, Human Rights Watch
- ↑ Rick Warren's Dissertation Advisor Leads Network Promoting Uganda Anti-Gay Bill, Talk To Action