This year, 2022, is the 28th year since the decriminalisation of homosexuality in South Africa, and the 16th year since the legalisation of same-sex marriage. When examining our heritage – the roots of who we are and the journey of how we came to be – we have much to be proud of: our people, our legislation, and our city.
Cape Town’s established queer community is arguably the basis of the inclusive and welcoming environment that the Mother City is known for. From the drag culture and celebrations of pride to being the home of the only Gay Pride Shelter in Africa, our city’s heritage has a strong foundation in both queerness and ally-ship.
The Pride Shelter:
The Pride Shelter Trust, an NPO in the heart of Cape Town, is a residential facility that provides short-term accommodation to LGBTQ+ people in crisis. Residents who are accepted into the shelter follow a 3-month programme designed with the intention of holding space to unpack trauma and prepare them for reintegration into society.
The programme focuses on mental and physical health, wellness and skills development training, with the shelter aiming to provide residents with self- and psychosocial support, as well as education about eradicating gender-based violence and homelessness.
The Pride Shelter Trust has assisted hundreds of individuals over the years, including South Africans, as well as refugees and asylum seekers. They can continue to do this as long as there is funding. Donations, volunteering and sponsorship are ways in which we can contribute to the maintenance of the Pride Shelter Trust and, in turn, the support of our city’s queer community.
Visit the Pride Shelter Trust here.
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Cape Town Pride:
Cape Town Pride hosts an annual parade through the CBD, a day that proudly announces the validity of all identities, and provides a platform for every part of the city’s LGBTQ+ community to celebrate freedom.
With the global battle for equality ongoing, celebrating pride is more than just a celebration of identity, it entails raising awareness around LGBTQ+ issues, and campaigning for equal treatment and recognition.
Cape Town hosted its very first pride event in 1993 and has had events every year since 2004, generally taking place around late February into early March. The events include the parade, art, pageantry, parties, drag shows and more.
The event is run entirely by volunteers and hosted by OUTReach Africa, a Cape Town-based NPO that organises LGBTQ+ events.
You can visit the Cape Town Pride organisers here.
Drag in Cape Town:
The glamorous, powerful and well-known art form, drag, plays a huge role in the culture of Cape Town. Although its main purpose is often seen as entertainment, drag is a means of self-expression and celebration of identity.
Drag is, and always has been, a cornerstone of queer life. Serving as an expression and exaggeration of identity to challenge stereotypes, drag helps create both safe spaces and open conversations about gender fluidity.
Also read: Stop being a drag and come out to these Cape Town spots with the queens
The drag scene in Cape Town is bursting with life and performers. With admirable stars such as Manilla von Teez and Ina Propriette (to name two of many), and regular events happening around the city, drag is a huge part of our nightlife and culture.
Also read:
The Glitter Trail – road tripping South Africa’s LGBTQ+ gems
Picture: Facebook / Cape Town Pride Festival