The Soweto Pride March returned for its 22nd year on Friday, 25 September, with a powerful procession through the streets of the Johannesburg township.
The march kicked off at noon from KwaLichaba Chesa Nyama on Vilakazi Street, bringing together LGBTQIA+ people, activists, allies, families and civil society organisations.
More than simply a celebration of LGBTQIA+ visibility, the march called for safer communities, greater social cohesion, access to justice and the meaningful implementation of the constitutional rights guaranteed to LGBTQIA+ people.
Led by representatives of Parents, Families and Friends of South African Queers (PFSAQ) from across Southern Africa, participants made their presence felt as they marched through Soweto, chanting, singing and carrying placards and rainbow flags.
The gathering also provided an opportunity to remember and honour members of the LGBTQIA+ community who have lost their lives to hate crimes and other forms of violence.
Following the march, participants returned to KwaLichaba Chesa Nyama for speeches and entertainment.
Speakers included former Constitutional Court Justice Edwin Cameron; Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Mmapaseka Steve Letsike; Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Andries Nel; as well as delegates from other Pride events and civil society organisations.
Enjoy MambaOnline’s gallery of images from the 2026 Soweto Pride March, photographed by Luiz De Barros, below.
