Gays and lesbians march for their rights

The march took place on Friday, July 14.

Communications official at Vosloorus Police Station Capt Piet Rossouw said the LGBTI group expressed their grievances and concerns.

“They have complained about the treatment they receive from SAPS in dealing with the cases that they report,” said Rossouw.

He said the memorandum was received on behalf of the station commander by Col Solly Phago (head of detectives), Capt Obed Mlaba (Social Crime Prevention Unit) and Wiseman Langa (CPF Project coordinator).

The following list of grievances was in the memorandum:

“The homosexual/LGBTI community struggles with being accepted by the heterosexual community. Therefore, the police must intervene thoroughly in all the discriminatory acts against LGBTI individuals and protect their rights.

“The police force is responsible for preventing crimes and not only appearing at crime scenes. This is said as police are often rude and have a subjective attitude when LGBTI individuals report cases.

“In addition, some hate crime cases are either not looked into in depth, disappear into thin air or are not resolved.

“The rights of the community, including those of LGBTI individuals, ought to be protected by the SAPS and not violated. This is said as there were cases of LGBTI individuals being raped by members of the SAPS. Unfortunately our community is dominated by homophobic individuals, hence LGBTI individuals easily become targets.

“We suggest that the SAPS overcome their homophobia and vow to protect all members of the community, including LGBTI individuals. Treat them with fairness without discrimination.

“The SAPS should also consider employing LGBTI individuals.”

Rossouw said the LGBTI marchers were told that the memorandum would be discussed and a response would be given.

Also Read: Today is International Day Against Homophobia or Transphobia