​Thembisa Shologu
Residents of Soweto witnessed hundreds of people walking in colourful outfits to celebrate and educate the public about the rights of the LGBTQI+ community during the 20 edition of Soweto Pride.
The event was a reminder that while much has been achieved in creating awareness on the LGBTQI+ community, there is still more to be done in the quest for a world where every person can live with pride, free from fear and discrimination.
Since its inception in 2004, Soweto Pride has been a vital platform for the empowerment of the LGBTQI+ community, fostering a safe, inclusive space for queer individuals to gather, celebrate their identities, and protest against discrimination and violence.
On Saturday, following a 5km walk, the LGBTQI+ community gathered at the Dorothy Nyembe Park in Dobsonville in celebration of the event.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister for Women, Children, and Persons with disabilities, Steve Letsike expressed concern on the ongoing struggles faced by the LGBTQI+ community, particularly black lesbian individuals.
"The LGBTQI+ community have raised the issue of violence, discrimination as well.  
We know it happens in terms of accessing services, accessing education opportunities but it's also about how we really respond to some of the challenges.
"Those who fear coming out because of discrimination or being outed; and remember homophobia lives among society.
"The attitude, and behaviour have always subjected the LGBTQI+ community  to violation and to victimization so people fear persecution, people fear to be outcasted and it'sokay if people are not rushed to come out. Let people be themselves wherever they are," said Letsike.
Kgomotso Kgasi from GALA (Gay and Lesbian Association) said it was important to create more awareness and support in addressing issues faced by the queer community.
The queer community experiences more challenges of hate crime towards black lesbian women that get raped based on their sexual orientation.
"It's important to have a queer Pride in the townships because it is where we live.
"These are the spaces that we occupy, these are the places that raise us and so these are also the places that reject us and so when that happens, we need to come together as a community to ensure that we stand together and can fight some of the challenges that we face. For organizers the day is about fighting for a world where everyone can live openly and authentically, free from prejudice and harm," said Kgasi.
Representing Parents, Families, and Friends of the South African Queer Virginia Magwaza called on parents to support their children irrespective of their sexual orientation.