Thopa Ya Banna le Basadi and Parents, Families and Friends of the South African Queers (PFSAQ) hosted an LGBTIQ+ presentation at the Welfare Centre in Diepkloof on February 9.

Diepkloof residents engaged with Virginia Magwaza, the founder and director of the PFSAQ, on social issues that members of the LGBTIQ+ community face, especially within the area.

Abbey Tshesane, the founder of Thopa Ya Banna le Basadi, said such dialogues allow the community to acquire more knowledge instead of discriminating against people who live their lives differently.

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“We believe people should be given a fair chance to live how they want without any fear of being judged. Topics around the LGBTIQ+ community are usually taboo in our communities, but we are giving residents a platform to ask questions when they do not understand.

“Due to a lack of access to supportive resources, people who are part of this community tend to have mental health challenges, such as depression, because they often have to fight for space and a sense of belonging. It is, therefore, crucial to offer support and education for families and individuals navigating life as part of the community,” Tshesane said.

Salome Lebeko, a PFSAQ ally, said they aim to shed light on topics often perceived as sensitive.

“We try to enlighten parents and communities because queer people are often misunderstood because of how they choose to live their lives, and we cannot blame communities; they also lack knowledge.

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“Parents are often scared of what people will say if their children come out as queer. Being part of the LGBTIQ+ community is not a fashion statement. They are born like this, and there is nothing they can change about themselves,” Lebeko said.

Lebeko added that such platforms are important in educating, informing and providing support.

“We preach acceptance to parents because that is the only way young people who are part of this community will feel safe. It is sad to lose a child to suicide just because they were never accepted.

“Most of these youngsters already face many challenges, such as bullying and social rejection, while navigating their lives, and all they need is support from their communities.”

The PFSAQ offers free counselling and mediation to families struggling with acceptance.

For more information, residents can visit the PFSAQ offices in Johannesburg south, reach out on social media platforms or send a WhatsApp to 087 355 0396.