ANC launches first queer branch in Atteridgeville

The ANC’s LGBTQIAP+ sub-committee launched its zonal structure in Atteridgeville, Pretoria last weekend comprising queer-only members and vows to continue till each region of the metro has queer representation.

The launch took place at midday on September 17 at Mbolekwa sports complex with members of the LGBTQIAP+ community in Atteridgeville, the LGBTIQAP+ regional task team and ANCWL LGBTQIA+ national desk in attendance.

Tshwane ANCWL LGBTQIA+ national desk convener Karabo Shai said that the implementation of these structures will help fight discrimination that the community faces.

“Discrimination still persists in South African society, and the scourge of violence persists. We have recognised our position in driving the realisation of a nonsexist, inclusive and equal society,” said Shai.

Shai is also the ANC LGBTQIA+ subcommittee Tshwane coordinator.

Also read: ANC to launch queer-only zonal region in Atteridgeville

“The implementation of the desks will enable us to recognise areas where our programmes are needed the most on the ground,” continued Shai.

LGBTQIA+ residents of Atteridgeville were given the platform to air their struggles as a queer community. The subcommittee says it has identified Atteridgeville as a hotspot for homophobic crimes and attacks.

“We declared Attridgeville a hotspot for homophobic attacks, following many cases presented in the launch itself and agreed that it needs special attention from the desk and the subcommittee to tackle this issue head-on,” said Shai.

Tshwane LGBTIQAP+ convener Sandra Lamola emphasised the significance of establishing regions as they are powerful tools for fighting discrimination.

“These launches are very important because when we are organised, it becomes easier to identify and tackle the challenges we face from our zonal task teams set up around Tshwane,” said Lamola.

The next launch is set for October 1 – the start of African Pride month – in Centurion, thereafter follow the schedule below:

– Metsweding Zone: October 2

– Mawiga Zone: October 8

– Mamelodi Zone: October 15

– Inner-City Zone: October 22

When all launches are complete, zonal task teams will be called on October 29 for a special meeting to discuss issues and ways forward.

Shai hopes efforts like these will unite a very marginalised group against factors that affect them constantly regardless of political affiliation or any other differences.

“I wish to remind all of you that you are loved and cherished. We remain the most marginalised minority group. Let us hold hands together, whether having joined the ANC’s LGBTQIA+ structure or not, we are one and nothing must ever come between us. The country must see us for who we are, deserving of dignity, respect and support,” said Shai.

The subcommittee is also planning a Tshwane pride parade on November 5 to conclude African Pride month. The parade will commence in Burgers Park and proceed to the Union Buildings to raise the awareness of the discrimination and other challenges the LGBTQIA+ community in South Africa and Africa faces.

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