WALL OF REMEMBRANCE AT JOBURG PRIDE

Joburg Pride has called on the gay community to play a part in commemorating the victims of LGBT hate crimes at this Saturday’s Joburg Gay Pride Parade and Celebration at Zoo Lake Sports Club.

“In addition to celebrating our diversity and freedoms, Joburg Pride has a serious side; signified this year by the theme ‘Love, Not Hate’. This will be reflected in the Wall of Remembrance which will be erected at Zoo Lake Sports Club on Saturday,” said Joburg Pride in a statement.

According to organisers, the wall, which has been curated by the Gay and Lesbian Archives (GALA), is dedicated to commemorating LGBT people who have suffered discrimination and have been victims of hate crimes.

Joburg Pride called on those planning to attend Pride on Saturday to bring mementoes, prayers, poems, flowers, artworks and messages of support to be placed at or on the wall.

“If you know someone that was a victim, or have a message for one of the women brutally murdered because of their sexuality, or simply feel that you have something to say about hate crimes and discrimination then this is your opportunity to make your mark,” said Joburg Pride Co-chair Zak Mbhele.

The messages and objects will be kept by GALA for posterity; ensuring that the Wall of Remembrance becomes part of LGBT history.