LGBTI – ‘We are proud of who we are’
Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) Limpopo embarked on a march on Friday to make their voices heard regarding the sexual abuse and violence they experience in communities.
POLOKWANE – Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) Limpopo embarked on a march on Friday to make their voices heard regarding the sexual abuse and violence they experience in communities. Held in partnership with the Capricorn District Municipality (CDM) and other stakeholders, the march also wanted to educate the community about LGBTI.
The march started at the SABC and proceeded to the premier’s office, where the marchers met with the MEC for transport, safety and liaison, Mapula Mokaba-Phukwana.
Regina Sebola, CDM deputy manager for special focus, said the march was part of their gender-based violence programme.
“The programme aims to educate people about gender-based violence among other issues that takes place in the community. Lesbians and gays are raped almost every day because people think they are a disgrace to the community,” she said.
Cindy Molefe, LGBTI Limpopo founder and director, said this was the fourth annual march in the province and they were happy people showed support.
“We still stand firm by saying no to gender-based violence. People should accept LGBTI for who they are and stop torturing them. Parents and elders in communities should set a good example by supporting LGBTI and guarding against gender-based violence,” added Molefe.
Mokaba-Phukwana said the provincial government did all it could to protect gays and lesbians and urged them to stay true to themselves and be proud of who they really were without fear.
“The provincial government is behind LGBTI and my office is always open if you want to report any kind of incident.
“I am happy to see that you came out in numbers to educate people about your sexuality and you should keep up the good work and walk tall.”
