Equality still a work in progress, activists say

Despite South Africa’s constitutional protection of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI) people, activists say discrimination, violence and exclusion remain a reality for many members of the community. These concerns were highlighted during a Pride flag-raising ceremony in Scottsville this week, where members of the LGBTQI community, activists and supporters gathered for Pride Month commemorations hosted by uThingo Network and eThekwini Pride. Pride Month is observed worldwide in June in remembrance of the Stonewall Uprising of 1969 in New York City, a series of protests that became a defining moment in the modern LGBTQI rights movement.

More than five decades later, activists say the struggle for dignity and safety continues across many parts of the world, including South Africa. “Sexual orientation should never deprive anyone of their rights,” was the message echoed throughout the event. Speaking toThe Witness, eThekwini Pride chairperson Siphokazi Nombande said that despite progressive legal frameworks in many countries, LGBTQI people continue to face high levels of discrimination and violence.

“Despite progressive legal protections globally, queer people continue to suffer disproportionately from abuse, neglect and violence,” said Nombande. This hostility stems from deeply entrenched patriarchal and conservative norms, resulting in high rates of verbal harassment, physical assault and systemic exclusion in homes, schools and workplaces. She said legal recognition alone is not enough to shift social attitudes, warning that real change requires education, dialogue and consistent community engagement. Nombande also raised concern about developments in Uganda, where proposed legislation includes life imprisonment and even the death penalty for same-sex relationships, saying it highlights the continued vulnerability of LGBTQI communities across the continent.