Leparagadi on the importance of awareness during Pride Month

POLOKWANE – Since the beginning of June, social media has been painted in a colourful rainbow in support of the LGBTQIA+ community for Pride Month.

June is the international month for pride where members and those in support of them commemorate, celebrate and raise awareness.

However, even though pride month is celebrated, the LGBTQIA+ community still face underlying issues and challenges.

Shimane Makgoba, popularly known as Leparagadi, says members face discrimination and homophobia which breaks his heart.

“There are many people within the community who are afraid to speak up and raise their concerns,” Leparagadi told the Polokwane Observer.

Despite the challenges, Leparagadi still believes that people can do better by treating others with respect regardless of their sexuality.

“We were born like this, we didn’t choose our sexuality so why should we be treated like we are less of a human? If only homophobic people could put themselves in our shoes would they then understand the pain we go through on a daily basis and stop when they think of mocking us,” he said.

Leparagadi advised parents and families to support their children instead of forcing them to be what they are not.

“I know it can be hard for some parents to raise a gay child, more especially if you lack knowledge but it is so important to educate yourself and support your kids. Nothing beats the support that we get from home as it even builds our confidence,” he said.

As an influencer, Leparagadi also highlighted the importance of raising awareness. “People listen to me and it’s up to me to use my influential voice to raise awareness about many issues and to also promote peace and love,” he said.

“I love the support our community gets from Ama2000s. The respect and love they show us is out of this world and they use their social media platforms to spread love and show respect to my community” he added.