Opinion Article by Yongama Zigebe, UDM Secretary General
One of the most significant achievements in South Africa’s LGBTQia+ history is the legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2006, making it Africa’s first country to do so. The adoption of this law marked a major turning point in the acceptance of LGBTQia+ people’s rights and their relationships. It showed the nation’s dedication to human rights and equality. We are leading on this issue on the Continent, and United Democratic Movement (UDM) find it disconcerting the mere fact of being gay or lesbian is still outlawed in may African countries.
However, legal recognition by itself is not enough to end the ongoing discrimination and abuse that many LGBTQia+ individual must deal with on a daily basis. The issues of stigma in society, discrimination, correctional rape, and hate crimes never go away.
We acknowledge that South Africa is the most progressive country in Africa to approve gay rights, but the government has failed to ensure that they conduct programmes that would eradicate the stigma against the LGBTQia+ community. The government has failed to strengthen the laws to ensure that those who identify as LGBTQIA+ are fully protected.
This is definitely not the government that promote equality, the evident lack of support and carelessness of the ANC led government is a loud statement of homophobia.
In order to remove stereotypes and promote an environment that accept, and respect, education and understanding are important. We can encourage empathy and understanding from an early age through the use of LGBTQia+ inclusive curriculum in schools as well as promoting diversity training programmes at institutions of higher learning. Programmes for community participation and open discussion are helpful in removing stereotypes and promoting unity among people from different backgrounds.
Hate crimes are unfortunately alive and well. The murder of 21-year-old Diego Jacobs in February shocked many, as it was believed to be a homophobic attack. Jacobs, residing in the Empolweni informal settlement in Delft near Cape Town, was fatally stabbed during an altercation. According to Jacobs’ aunt, Naomi du Preez, the alleged killer used a homophobic slur before fatally stabbing him. This tragic incident highlights the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by LGBTQia+ individuals, emphasising the urgent need for greater awareness, education, and advocacy to combat such hate crimes and promote acceptance and equality for all.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) made a significant arrest in September last year, apprehending a group of men suspected of involvement in multiple cases known as the “Grindr Gang” incidents. These cases targeted members of the LGBTQia+ community, with one notable incident involving the kidnapping of a Wits University student who was lured through the Grindr dating app on 19 September 2023.
The student was reported missing on the same day by his roommate, sparking concerns about his safety. The suspects allegedly demanded R30,000 from his family for his safe return. This incident is part of a disturbing trend where queer men, primarily in Johannesburg but also in Cape Town, have fallen victim to criminals through dating apps like Grindr.
Victims are often lured into meetings under false pretences, only to face violence, threats, and theft. Many are held captive while criminals exploit their bank accounts using the victim’s banking apps, or they are held for ransom. These incidents highlight the dangers faced by LGBTQia+ individuals in online dating spaces and underscore the need for increased awareness and safety measures to protect vulnerable communities.
It doesn’t help if public figures rhetoric inflames hatred toward the LGBTQia+ community. It has been reported that during a rally of 3,000 supporters of his uMkhonto weSizwe Party in Pietermaritzburg in January 2024, that former President Jacob Zuma expressed his solidarity with tribal leaders’ alleged concern about same-sex marriages.
Former President Zuma also implied that legislation supporting same-sex marriage lacks support from the majority of South Africa. These comments echo his 2006 sentiments that same-sex marriage is a “disgrace to the nation and to God”, stating that “When I was growing up, ungqingili [a homosexual individual] could not stand in front of me. I would have knocked him out.”
These comments reflect outdated and discriminatory views that have no place in modern society. It’s disappointing to see a public figure using their platform to propagate harmful beliefs that marginalise certain groups of people. Such remarks only serve to perpetuate prejudice and discrimination, undermining efforts toward equality and inclusion for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
The UDM advocates for public education and awareness campaigns to foster understanding, empathy, and acceptance of LGBTQia+ individuals. These initiatives, including media campaigns and community outreach efforts, are crucial steps towards building a more inclusive society.
We therefore encourage the LGBTQia+ community to consider the UDM as a party to vote for, as we are committed to ensuring that hate crimes and discrimination against LGBTQia+ individuals are thoroughly investigated, perpetrators are held accountable through prosecution and punishment, and survivors receive access to victim support services and justice.
