Amanzimtoti LGBTI group to break barriers with Same Love campaign
The two most recent developments include the creation of a new LGBTI multi-organisational non-profit company called KZN Pride, and the launch of safe spaces in the DA’s councillor offices.
LOCAL LGBTI group, Same Love Toti is growing and developing as time passes, and shared the latest progress that has been made.
The two most recent developments include the creation of a new LGBTI multi-organisational non-profit company called KZN Pride, and the launch of safe spaces in DA councillor, Andre Beetge’s offices.
In recent months there have been negotiations around the viability of a new LGBTI organisation in Kwa-Zulu Natal. Ezra Steenkamp, a Durban businessman, Anthony Waldhausen of the Gay and Lesbian Network in Pietermaritzburg and Kim Lithgow of Same Love Toti, have founded a new multi-organisational non-profit company called KZN Pride.
“This will be a collective group made of all the LGBTI organisations around KZN,” explained Kim. “The idea is to create a supportive, inclusive network that can strengthen existing NPO’s and CSO’s as they voice the concerns of the LGBTI community in KZN. More information will follow in the new year, but in the meanwhile all organisations are invited to join KZN Pride as we strive for dignity, safety and a truly free society.”
Kim moved on to explain the newly provided safe spaces created locally.
More on Same Love Toti: Local LGBTI group offers support and guidance
“Currently the LGBTI community experiences discrimination in varying degrees across South Africa. Many times people do not know where they can access support and so depression, self-harm and even suicide become the harsh realities that families are faced with. In extreme cases there are hate crimes, bullying, violence and ‘corrective’ rape,” said Kim.
“The DA has seen fit to speak to this situation by making their councillor’s offices safe spaces for LGBTI people. LGBTI can safely bring their concerns to the councillor, who will in turn take the necessary steps to rectify the problem at hand.”
Kim explained that this can mean addressing cases of secondary victimisation from service providers, to referring them to the local LGBTI organisation Same Love Toti.
“While Same Love Toti is by necessity apolitical, it nevertheless commends the DA on this initiative, and calls all other political parties to follow suit,” said Kim. “Every South African should be free to live openly with dignity and self-worth, and should find inclusion and respect within their community. Same Love Toti looks forward to working with the DA and assisting the Amanzimtoti community both re-actively and pro-actively.”
Same Love shared their upcoming event.
“On Sunday, 2 December Same Love Toti will have a transgender picnic at the Botanic Gardens from 11am until 2pm. All transgender and trans-friendly people are welcome to join us. For both events bring eats to share and your own chairs or a blanket,” she said.
Kim urged those facing any difficulties regarding gender or orientation, for party information or if keen to be pro-active and find ways to be more inclusive in your school or work environment, to contact her at samelovetoti@gmail.com or 084-700-2536.
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