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| Pride of Africa |
Joburg Pride 2011
celebrated its 22 years of existence at Zoo Lake Sports Club on Saturday the 1st
of October. The theme this year was Born This Gay. The celebration started with
the usual march through the streets of Rosebank, starting and finishing at Zoo
Lake. This year’s focus was directed at upholding our liberal and all inclusive
constitution; calling for the protection of all human rights contained therein,
but especially those sexual minorities who are victimized on a daily
basis. (as cited in the official Guide for Joburg Pride, Pride of Africa).
Joburg Pride 2011(official website link)
is therefore proud to present its theme for 2011 – Born This Gay. The aim is
to creatively, without fail and without shame, encourage society to speak out
and take action against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender hate crime. The
entire community needs to consistently drive the message that being gay,
lesbian, transgender or intersex is NOT a fashion statement, a sickness, a
crime, a curse or a choice.
Since the first
democratic election held 17 years ago, in 1994, we would have hoped for some
change, increased education, protection and justice. We live in a society with
the most liberal constitution in the world, however discrimination and abuse is
an everyday occurrence; If being in the closet is hard enough – then living a
life with issues being swept under the carpet is even worse.
These images
showcase the festive spirit of the Party ; a Gay
celebration of freedom of association. The event, as always, was stunningly organized
and marvelously supported and held in a good spirit. Not to be missed if you
wish to enjoy yourself in a place with arguably the best party goers in the
business (in solidarity of course).
All inhibitions were forgotten during the
parade as lovers, friends, acquaintances and the inquisitive, all joined in the
thirst quenching party at the Zoo Lake Sports Club (no alcohol was permitted to
be consumed during the Parade). The outrageous attire and well-toned flesh
provided a to be desired and aspired
appeal amongst the party goers. This was an opportunity to be, and to be seen,
adore and be adorned.
This event, held annually during the months of spring,
provides a perfect platform for body-perfect vehicles to drive home desires
amongst the aspiring revelers. Joburg Pride annually is an event to express yourself,
to forget yourself, be true to yourself and or just admire the other being and enjoying themselves.
1 comment:
looks like a fun day for everyone there. not sure how SA compares to US in regard to LGTB issues but sometimes it seems like we're going backwards here in the states and it saddens me. i'm ambivalent because part of me knows that it is inevitable that progressive ideas about such things will prevail in the end but sometimes the intractable nature of the opponents makes me think it won't happen in my lifetime.
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