Soweto Pride, hosted by the Forum for the Empowerment of Women (FEW), celebrated its 21st anniversary with a powerful march on Friday, bringing activism, community, and celebration to the streets of Johannesburg’s historic township.
Participants gathered at the Streat and Chill venue on Vilakazi Street, where Parents, Families & Friends of South African Queers (PFSAQ) hosted a group of fathers and uncles of queer children. The men held up striking placards affirming their love and support as family allies.
The march kicked off at midday and included delegates from several embassies, along with Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, and Johannesburg Mayor, Dada Morero.
Marchers filled the streets with songs and chants for equality and inclusion before returning to Streat and Chill. There, speakers including Bev Ditsie – co-founder of the first Johannesburg Pride – addressed the crowd in support of LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.
The Pride weekend continued on Saturday with a full day of celebration.
Check out our exclusive gallery of images from the 2025 Soweto Pride March below. (And view our other gallery of the Celebration Day here.)
