Hate crimes in South Africa are prevalent, and have increased during the pandemic. South Africa’s progressive laws are welcomed and contribute to the healthy and safety of LGBQTIA+ commuities but LGBQTIA+ communities still face violence and discrimination. Read more: #LGBQTILife : Ashwin Thyssen on queerness, faith and creating your own safe space South Africa’s constitution protects against sexual orientation discrimination – and in 2020 the Civil Union Amendment Act was passed into law that prohibits marriage officers from refusing to conduct same-sex marriages. In 2006, South Africa became the first African nation to legalise same-sex marriages, and still remains the only one. In four countries (Mauritania, South Sudan, Somalia and sharia law Nigerian states) it is punishable by death, while in some countries it is punishable by imprisonment. Only 22 of 54 African nations have legalised homosexuality. I know in the past we would not be able to do this.” he said I think this is historic and the moment we have been longing for. Even in the political space I am not represented and am not allowed to have my say. “It was hard for me because no one wanted to associate with me. I’m lucky that I have a loving family which accepts me the way I am.” he said.Ĭhrispine, 30, was thrown out of his family home at 18 when his sexuality was discovered.
I have been through a lot, including insults and discrimination. To be a gay in Malawi is tough and it takes a lot of guts to be open like I am. Speaking to The Guardian Andreas, 29, said it was a huge and happy moment for his community. They sent a letter to the president urging legal equality & better access to healthcare, including HIV prevention programmes. The laws on homoseuality must be reviewed and reformed to protect LGBQTI people from discrimination, violence, stigma and ensure equal access to healthcare.”īraving the threat of persecution, LGBTs marched in #Malawi's first-ever Pride parade. “LGBQTI people in Malawi are subjected to many forms of violence. Nyasa Rainbow Alliance said sexual minorities in Malawi are always in danger. Hudson Kuphanga, a senior city council member, received the petition and he told the organisers it would reach the office of the president and cabinet. The march was led by Nyasa Rainbow Alliance, a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex organisation. The petition called on the government to provide detailed government recognition, protection for the LGBTI community, same sex marriage legalisation, and improvement in access to healthcare. At the end of the march, organisers handed city officials a petition. The march took place through the streets of Lilongwe, Malawi’s capital. zn8kNfoce0- Malawi Human Rights Commission June 26, 2021