By Josephine Kayaga
Canada-based Ugandan gospel singer Julie Birungi has spoken out after several invited artistes reportedly failed to attend her Mother’s Day concert in Toronto, raising concerns about acceptance and discrimination within the gospel music community.
The concert, titled An Evening with Julie, was organised to celebrate mothers and bring together gospel music lovers in Canada. However, the event took a different turn after guest performers who had earlier confirmed attendance reportedly failed to show up.
Speaking emotionally during the show, Birungi told fans that she felt abandoned by people she once considered close friends and colleagues.She revealed that despite months of preparation and personal invitations sent to different artistes, many stopped responding as the concert date approached.
According to Birungi, the absence of the artistes was connected to discomfort surrounding her personal life and sexuality.“You want to love me behind the scenes but do not want people to see you with me,” she said during the concert.The singer added that she had expected support from fellow gospel artistes because of the friendships and memories they had shared over the years.
Despite the disappointment, Birungi still went ahead with the concert alongside her children, Ezekiel and Esther, who joined her on stage.Some of the artistes she mentioned as part of the expected lineup included Judith Babirye, Vivian Tendo, Jackie Ssenyonjo, and Mr Samuel.Birungi, formerly known as Julie Mutesasira, relocated to Canada several years ago where she later publicly opened up about her sexuality and remarried.
Her remarks have since sparked debate among fans on social media, with some calling for greater compassion and inclusiveness in the gospel industry, while others defended the artistes’ personal decisions.