Gay and proud

ADVOCATING for the rights of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community, University of Zululand ‘Step-Out’ society is in need of a sponsor to assist in hosting educational support seminars.

Formed in 2012, the group deals with raising awareness about homosexuality, health issues, dealing with homophobic attacks and breaking the stigma around homosexuality.

This year the committee took part in the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHT) – a day on which the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses.

‘Some people feel threatened by people who have sexual preferences other than their own,’ said Step-Out Deputy Chairperson, Mongezi Zondi.

‘Sometimes leading to acts of violence, discrimination and expressions of hostility.

‘Organised hate groups have viciously attacked homosexuals and have used especially violent language in attempting to persecute and intimidate.

‘Discrimination against homosexuals comes in many forms. At times homophobic beliefs lead people toward prejudice actions at work, schools, clubs and in many other areas as well.

‘Prejudiced views directed at homosexuals often stem from the perception that homosexual activity is immoral.

‘In recent years attacks on homosexuals have risen. While the violent crime rate in many areas continues to drop, anti-gay crime is moving in the other direction,’ Zondi said.

According to the society, there is a high number of LGBT students at the University but many of them have not openly come out about their homosexuality.

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