Lesbian Rights and Hate Crimes in South Africa

Same-sex sexual activity between women has never been illegal in South Africa. The Constitution prohibits all forms of discrimination based on sex, gender identity and sexual orientation. LGBT people are allowed to donate blood and serve openly in the military. South Africa was the 5th country in the world and the first and only in Africa to legalize same-sex marriage on December 1, 2006. Same-sex couples are allowed to adopt children jointly.

So, why do gay Africans continue to face brutal homophobic violence? Why do people feel threatened by homosexuality?!

Lesbian community members are at greater risk of being assaulted because they are women. Thousands of lesbian, bisexual, trans and even straight women across the African continent live every day in fear of being beaten, raped and murdered.

The situation in SA is truly disturbing. The attacks against lesbians sharply increased. The terrifying murders of young lesbian women in the past few months have shocked us all. The Community demands justice. We need to take actions to ensure safety of our black lesbian sisters and prevent new hate crimes. Share this and stand up for the South Africa's Lesbian Community. Your voice can make a difference in many lives.

Gone, but will never be forgotten.

Nonki Smous, 28

killed and burned while going to church in Kroonstad

                                                                         

Noluvo 'Vovo' Swelindawo, 22

abducted and shot dead in Driftsands, Cape Town

LGBTQ activist

Lerato 'Tambai' Moloi, 27

stabbed with knife, raped and stoned to death in Naledi, Soweto