On 17 August 2023, OUT LGBT Well-being made a significant contribution to a groundbreaking LGBTQIA+ dialogue held by the Eastern Cape Legislature.
This event marked a historic milestone as the first of its kind within the province, which has traditionally been identified as one of the country’s most challenging regions for LGBTQIA+ rights.
Sibonelo Ncanana, OUT’s Human Rights Coordinator, played an integral role in this dialogue as one of the featured speakers addressing members of the provincial legislature and fellow LGBTQIA+ human rights advocates.
During his presentation, Ncanana highlighted the multifaceted issues confronting the LGBTQIA+ community in the Eastern Cape. These challenges encompassed topics such as hate crimes, equitable access to essential health services, and the critical matter of intersex erasure. Additionally, he underscored the encouraging strides achieved by acknowledging positive engagements with traditional leaders in the province.
The successful gathering concluded with the formulation of several draft resolutions to combat discrimination and eradicate the prevalence of hate crimes within the province. A notable aspect is that these resolutions are poised to be formally presented to the legislature for official adoption.
OUT LGBT Well-being’s participation in this historic dialogue has exemplified our steadfast commitment to championing LGBTQIA+ rights and fostering dialogue that paves the way for change.
This landmark event not only addressed pressing issues but also set the stage for progressive resolutions that hold the potential to transform the landscape of LGBTQIA+ rights in the Eastern Cape.