Soweto Pride marked its 20th anniversary on 28 September 2024, with a vibrant celebration at Dorothy Nyembe Park in Dobsonville.
Organised by the Forum for the Empowerment of Women (FEW), the event has grown since its inception in 2004 into a powerful platform for queer liberation, particularly for lesbian, bisexual, and queer (LBQ) women.
The day kicked off with a lively march through Soweto’s streets, where participants in rainbow attire chanted for equality and justice. Joining the march were international diplomats and LGBTIQ+ refugees from several African countries. Families of South African queer individuals also showed support, advocating for more inclusive communities.
Back at the park, the festival continued with community stalls, food vendors, and performances. Steve Letsike, South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, addressed the crowd, condemning the recent rise in LGBTIQ+ hate crimes.
As the sun set, Soweto Pride’s message of queer visibility, resistance, and solidarity remained strong, with the celebrations continuing into the evening.
Enjoy our exclusive images of the day below and read our full report on Soweto Pride 2024 here.
