LGBTIQ+ Community Mourns Intersex Activist Dimakatso “Garfield” Sebidi

South Africa’s LGBTIQ+ community is mourning the loss of Dimakatso “Garfield” Sebidi (they/them), an intersex rights pioneer and fearless advocate who passed away on 18 January 2025 following a short illness.

Born in Soweto on 1 April 1983, Sebidi’s life and work profoundly impacted intersex visibility and justice, not just in South Africa but globally.

A Life Dedicated to Advocacy

Sebidi was born with ambiguous genitalia and spent the first six years of their life undergoing unnecessary and invasive surgeries. Misled to believe they were being treated for a kidney condition, it was only at the age of 21 that they learned the truth about being intersex.

This experience of intersex genital mutilation (IGM) became the foundation for Sebidi’s life-long mission: to end these harmful practices and to advocate for the dignity, autonomy, and celebration of intersex people.

Mentored by the late Sally Gross, founder of Intersex South Africa (ISSA), Sebidi became a leading voice for intersex rights, breaking down barriers of stigma and ignorance.

They shared their story courageously, raising awareness about the human rights violations faced by intersex individuals and challenging society to embrace and affirm intersex identities.

A Legacy of Impact

Sebidi’s advocacy reached new heights of visibility when they were featured in the acclaimed 2023 documentary, Who I Am Not, which showcased the realities of intersex lives and brought their voice to audiences worldwide.

They also penned powerful reflections, including a 2023 article in which they wrote:

“Intersex children deserve to be celebrated for who they are, not decided for. And that is why I speak so boldly and proudly today. I am who I am. Being intersex is one of the reasons that I am grateful for existing. God did not make a mistake. The males and females who made choices for me and about me did, and because of them, I am taking lifetime medication. Not by choice, but because those males and females did not want to accept God’s creation.”

Their words continue to resonate as a call for justice and dignity for intersex individuals.

Tributes to a Trailblazer

The impact of Sebidi’s work is evident in the outpouring of tributes from the community and organisations they touched.

Newcastle Prideful Legends described Sebidi as an unwavering force for equality:

“Their tireless efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable world have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing them or learning from their work. Garfield’s unwavering courage and compassion inspired countless people, and their voice will continue to echo in the ongoing fight for intersex rights and visibility.”

LBTI visibility organisation Iranti also honoured Sebidi’s life:

“Over the past decade, Garfield courageously championed intersex rights, shattering stigma and inspiring a generation of activists. Iranti is fortunate to have worked with them on numerous projects, where they shared their passion for the advocacy of intersex rights. Our heartfelt condolences to the Sebidi family, friends, and the intersex community who have lost a true hero whose efforts have transformed countless lives.”

Crystal Hendricks, the South African-born Programme Officer for Sex Characteristics at ILGA World, said she was “devastated” by the news of Sebidi’s passing and revealed that their activism sparked her passion to become an intersex advocate herself.

“Garfield inspired the movement; they were a pioneer for intersex rights in South Africa and now globally, thanks to the huge popularity of their documentary Who I Am Not. Garfield will be gone but never forgotten. I shall continue to fight for intersex justice in your honour. You are and always will be my hero.”

A Lasting Legacy

Dimakatso “Garfield” Sebidi’s life was a beacon of hope, resilience, and empowerment. Their legacy as a trailblazer for intersex rights will continue to inspire activists and communities around the world.

Sebidi’s voice may have fallen silent, but their work and passion will resonate for generations to come. May they rest in power.

 

A memorial service for Sebidi will take place on 23 January 2025 from 17:00 to 20:00 in Vooslorus. For more information please contact Mapaseka at +27 8479 16261.