REPORT ON HOMOPHOBIA IN PMB

The Gay and Lesbian Network (GLN) is to present the findings of its research on hate crimes within Pietermaritzburg and surrounding areas next week.

The organisation commissioned psychologist Angeline Stephens to conduct the research study in order to develop appropriate needs-based and relevant programmes to address the issue.

The study aimed to go beyond statistical reporting to explore the experiences, perceptions and understanding of hate crime and homophobia within the LGBTI community and the general youth in Pietermaritzburg.

It also considers initiatives, needs and challenges within the NGO, governmental and private sectors that offer support and intervention to victims of homophobia.

Data was collected using various methods: questionnaire surveys, focus group, in-depth interviews with members of the LGBTI community and semi-structured interviews with officials from various organisations.

The report will be presented to the public on Thursday 21 October at 10am at the Bessie Head library auditorium, in Church Street, Pietermaritzburg.

The full report will be available on the GLN website at www.gaylesbiankzn.org on 22 October. To attend the public presentation contact Ponie Ngcobo on 033-3426165 or at ponie@telkomsa.net.

Based in Pietermaritzburg, GLN is a registered non-profit organisation established in 2003 in response to the lack of psycho-social support services for the LGBTI community.