Soweto Pride Is Celebrating 20 Years of Queer Empowerment

This year marks a significant milestone in the history of the Forum for the Empowerment of Women (FEW) as they proudly celebrate 20 years of Soweto Pride — an iconic event that has been a beacon of visibility, pride, and advocacy for lesbian, bisexual, and queer (LBQ) individuals in South Africa.

Since its inception in 2004, Soweto Pride has been a vital platform for the empowerment of the LBQ community, fostering a safe, inclusive space for queer individuals to gather, celebrate their identities, and protest against discrimination and violence. Hosted annually by FEW, which was established in 2002, Soweto Pride remains a key political and social event that champions the rights and humanity of LBQ individuals in the country.

On the 28th of September 2024, the celebration of this remarkable journey will take place at Dorothy Nyembe Park in Dobsonville, Soweto. The event will honour two decades of resilience, strength, and solidarity within the LBQ community, all while continuing the fight for a world where everyone can live openly and authentically, free from prejudice and harm.

A Political and Social Space for Black Queer Women

Soweto Pride has always been more than just a celebration—it is a powerful political statement. At its core, the event has centered black lesbian women, highlighting the violent hate crimes often perpetrated against black queer women and calling for justice and safety for all. Over the years, it has become a rallying point for advocacy, demanding not only visibility but also action and accountability in the face of systemic violence.

The location of the event in the heart of Soweto, South Africa’s largest and most vibrant township, is crucial. Soweto Pride is not merely a replication of larger pride events; it is a unique space where black queer women and other marginalised communities can assert their identities and claim their right to exist without fear or discrimination.

Growth and Solidarity

Over the last 20 years, Soweto Pride has grown to include not only the LBQ community but also the broader LGBTQI+ community, local civic organisations, and allies from various sectors of society. Families, friends, and supporters from all over the country now join in solidarity, creating a broader network of support for the LGBTQI+ movement.

This expansion has been a critical aspect of the event’s evolution. By engaging with local civic society organisations and the broader community, Soweto Pride has become a hallmark event that speaks to both the LBQ community’s unique struggles and the universal fight for human dignity and equality.

FEW’s Commitment to LBQ Rights

For more then 20 years, FEW has been dedicated to advancing the rights and well-being of LBQ individuals. Through advocacy, empowerment initiatives, and community engagement, the organisation has challenged discrimination and amplified the voices of those who are often marginalised. Their work has yielded lasting impacts on both individual lives and the broader South African community.

“As we reflect on the past 20 years, we recommit ourselves to the principles of empowerment, pride, resilience, and solidarity that have guided FEW since its inception,” said FEW in a statement. “Looking ahead, we are excited to continue our work towards a more inclusive, equitable, and accepting society for all LBQ individuals.”

Celebrating 20 Years, and Looking Forward

As Soweto Pride celebrates its 20th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the resilience of the LBQ community in the face of adversity. From its roots as a political protest, it continues to be a vital space for celebration, reflection, and activism.

This year’s Soweto Pride is not just about honouring the past; it is about renewing the fight for justice, safety, and equality for all LGBTQI+ individuals. It is a reminder that while much has been achieved, there is still more to be done in the quest for a world where every person can live with pride, free from fear and discrimination.

Join FEW on the 28th of September 2024 at Dorothy Nyembe Park in Dobsonville, Soweto to celebrate this remarkable milestone, and stand in solidarity with the LBQ community as we continue the journey toward a more just and inclusive future.