Previous Articles

Being Queer in South Africa

A Discussion followed by a Concert that will raise questions about differences and preaches understanding

July 18th, 2017
Nadine Dinh, News from Berlin
2017_07_18 Being Queer in Africa.jpg

On July 26th, 2017 at Südblock (Berlin-Kreuzberg), the Rosa-Luxemburg-Foundation will organise a discussion forum around the topic of being Queer in South Africa. This event will be followed by the concert of the international LGBTIQA music group Rainbow Riots.

It is a common knowledge that South Africa’s Constitution is one of the most advanced in the world. By its history the country has a strong will to protect Human Rights and to fight against discrimination, nevertheless LGBTIQA communities don’t have such real protection.

The Rosa-Luxemburg-Foundation wants to raise these issues in an open discussion forum, where the question of “white rights” and violence, discrimination against black, gay, lesbian or transgender will be the central point. This is an interesting topic when German Parliament just approved a few weeks ago same-sex marriage.

Germany is part of the latest European countries to legalise it that’s why this discussion forum held in Berlin will give the opportunity to German citizens and South African community to debate together and exchange their cultural knowledge in this controversial but societal subject.

The desire to have a concert of Rainbow Riot after the forum is also part of the idea that music is still an important cultural impact that can reach many and light up the mood. Rainbow Riots is the title of the recently released LGBTIQA album (House of Wallenberg) by queer artists from all parts of the world, taking up homophobia and transphobia in Africa.

This event has the support of the South African Embassy in Berlin. This is an occasion to reflect in the evolution of our culture and find together solutions for a more peaceful tomorrow.

References:

News from Berlin