Soweto Pride 2020 will be a fundraising picnic for artists

Soweto Pride, one of the most iconic Pride events in South Africa, will not proceed as usual this year due to the global pandemic and will instead be replaced by a fundraising picnic.

In a statement, the Forum for the Empowerment of Women (FEW), which has organised Soweto Pride since 2004, explained that fundraising for the annual event – which normally attracts thousands of revellers – has been hampered by the Covid-19 crisis.

“Therefore, Pride activities will not be carried out as usual due to lack of funding,” said FEW. Noting that the livelihoods of many LGBTI artists have been affected by the lockdown, FEW has decided to provide a platform to benefit them.

“So, this year instead of the main Pride event we will be hosting a fundraising picnic which will be taking place on 24 October,” said the organisation. The picnic will be held at Chaf Pozi situated at Orlando Towers in Soweto from 10:00 to 23:00.

“It is through this event that we are of the notion that there is a chance to support queer community members who are artists and creatives that have drastically suffered because of the pandemic,” added FEW.

There will be limitations on the number of people who will be allowed to attend due to lockdown regulations. Tickets can be purchased through the Biri Online app for R80, which can be downloaded here.

“The proceedings will directly be utilised to support all the artists that will be entertaining us that will be attending the picnic. We also urge those who can give more to not limit their giving but donate to the organisation,” said FEW.

While the community was urged to celebrate and enjoy the picnic it was also warned to be cautious about Covid-19 during the event.

For more information, contact Siphokazi Nombande on operations@fewsa.org.