The present divisions that exist around Gay Pride are a cause for great concern. The debates that have arisen should have been examined and resolved to achieve positive outcomes. This has not been the case and now we are expected to support a number of Pride events.

The gay community is diverse. While the acronym LBGTI is apt, we encompass people of all political persuasions – anti-capitalist to socialist; those for gay marriage and/or civil unions and others against; atheists; agnostics and believers; and an array of intelligences and professions among other differences.

I have always seen Pride as a celebratory protest. It is a day where we remind the world that we exist in all our diversity.

My view is that future organisers of this event should find ways of harmonising these differences in one event. Allow a platform for all so that it can be both a march and a parade. We need to acknowledge that the fight is not over, but also that we can be happy in our being.

I would like to suggest we call for the formal recognition of National LGBTI Pride Day which would take place within a National LGBTI Pride Month (as is the case with Youth Day; Women’s Day etc.)

I therefore want to recommend that we boycott this year’s events until all the various organisers meet and learn to work together.