Challenging Prejudice: The Struggle for LGBTQ+ Rights in Africa

In 1990, Beverley Palesa Ditsie, a courageous black lesbian activist and filmmaker from Soweto, found herself facing a barrage of hatred and threats after appearing on national television at the first gay and lesbian pride march in downtown Johannesburg. Amidst petitions calling for her murder, she stood tall, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in a hostile environment. African Sexualities: A Reader, Sylvia Tamale (Editor)

“We understand when it’s these white people, we understand it’s a very white thing to be doing, so, we understand. But when YOU stand up and tell us it’s all South African, oh – well you’re starting to insult people’s sensibilities and you are shaking their moral ground, and you are shaking their own firm beliefs!” These were the words hurled at Ditsie, encapsulating the entrenched prejudices she faced simply for being her true self.

The notion that sexual orientation is a ‘white thing to be doing’ reflects the politicization of queer identities across African countries. Throughout the continent, queerness has been unjustly condemned as being ‘Unafrican.’ Politicians often appeal to homophobic prejudices, framing LGBTQ+ identities as a threat to traditional African values.

Ditsie’s experience highlights the dangers that LGBTQ+ individuals face when challenging societal norms. By daring to embrace her identity openly, she risked her safety and endured immense hostility. Yet, her resilience paved the way for greater visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ communities in Africa.

The struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in Africa is ongoing. Despite the progress made in some areas, discrimination and violence against queer individuals persist even here in Kenya. Various leaders have condemned queer people with some comparing them to dogs while citing scripture. Protest over Kenyan claim that homosexuals = dogs It is imperative to continue challenging harmful stereotypes and advocating for equality and inclusion for all members of society. Kenya’s Bill of Rights recognises and protects human rights and fundamental freedoms in order to “preserve the dignity of individuals and communities, and to promote social justice and the realisation of the potential of all human beings.” (INEND Non-Discrimination Bench Book.)

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