eThekwini Pride has officially launched its 2026 edition under the bold theme, “Beyond Waves, Pride in Action,” with a demand to move beyond performative gestures and contribute to building a safer, more inclusive society for all.
Following the hugely successful inaugural outing in 2025, this year’s Pride programme aims to foster dialogue, strengthen partnerships, and celebrate the resilience and diversity of the LGBTQI+ community. It’s set to take place over a week of events, culminating in the march along the Durban Promenade on 6 June.
“‘Beyond Waves, Pride in Action’ is a call for courage and accountability. We have raised our voices, now we must raise our impact,” says Siphokazi Nombande, Chairperson of eThekwini Pride.
Nombande adds that, “Pride is a commitment to actively challenge injustice, to create safer spaces, and to ensure that no queer person in KwaZulu-Natal is left behind.”
Week of Events to Drive Dialogue and Visibility
The 2026 programme will begin with an International Pride Flag Raising Ceremony in Pietermaritzburg, symbolising unity, visibility, and the ongoing fight for equality.
A high-level roundtable with the South African Police Service (SAPS) will bring together law enforcement, civil society, and LGBTQI+ stakeholders to address issues of safety, justice, and accountability.
Engaging Men in Queer Allyship
A key highlight of the programme, in collaboration with Parents, Families and Friends of South African Queers (PFSAQ), is the “Bring Your Father, Uncle and Brother to Pride” community dialogue.
The allyship initiative seeks to create space for men to publicly express support for LGBTQI+ people while challenging harmful attitudes that contribute to discrimination and gender-based violence.
Celebrating Leaders and Building Inclusive Spaces
The eThekwini Pride Recognition Awards will honour activists, leaders, and changemakers who continue to advance LGBTQI+ rights and visibility in South Africa.
A faith-based dialogue will also bring together religious leaders, theologians, and community members to promote understanding and create more inclusive and affirming faith spaces across the province.
Meanwhile, a Pride Boat Cruise will offer a celebratory and safe environment for community connection and expression.
Durban Promenade March to Anchor Pride Week
The highlight of the programme will be the Pride March along the Durban Promenade, where participants will gather in a show of unity and advocacy for equality and human rights.
It starts at 10.30 on Saturday, 6 June at Durban’s South Beach, next to The Joint.
The march will include a powerful activation linked to the “Bring Your Father, Uncle and Brother to Pride” campaign. This will encourage men to stand in visible solidarity with the LGBTQI+ community at the march and commit to ending violence against queer people.
“When we take to the Promenade on the 6th of June, we are reclaiming space, visibility, and power,” asserts Nombande. “Every step we take is a reminder that we belong, that we matter, and that our rights are non-negotiable.”
For enquiries, partnerships, or participation, contact: info@ethekwinipride.co.za or +27 83 304 8910.
