A Freedom by Law

By Nicole Hodnett


Guto Nubrega (Artist) and Sergio Rivero (Poet) representing Brazil, South America in the Art for Humanity, “Dialogue Among Civilizations” Print Portfolio 2010.

According to section 9 of the constitution, South Africa prohibits unfair discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation.

Woman for Children, an initiative by Art for Humanity is an artistic form of expression to any controversial issue. It is to bring light to an unspoken topic that has been the source of critical debate.

In light of critical debates, South African artist accused the Minister of Art and Culture, Lulu Xingwana of being homophobic. According to an article written by Melanie Norton, the minister stormed out in disgust over what she termed as a “pornographic art exhibition” featuring black lesbian couples.

In recent reports by News24, the brutal murder of a 23 year old openly gay man in the Northern Cape could be connected to other attacks on members of the gay and lesbian communities in the province.

The victimisation of gays and lesbians upon their sexual orientation includes harassment, vandalism, robbery, assault and murder. According to the National Centre for Victims of crime, the locations of these crimes are not restricted to dark streets or leading from gay establishments, but occur everywhere. These include school, the work place, public places and in the home.

According to the City Press, National House which appealed to Traditional healers, which has appealed to Parliament to debate removing a clause from the Constitution that protects people on the grounds of sexual orientation.

According to the Bill of rights, everyone is equal before the law and has the right to equal protection before the law. This includes the full and equal enjoyment of all rights and freedoms.

For more on gay and lesbian rights, email africa@iglhrc.org .