CAPE TOWN – In an effort to promote inclusivity and create a safer space, members of Langa LGBTQI+ Pride, together with the Langa Centenary Committee and other organisations, unveiled a mural on Saturday 7 February.
As part of the Langa LGBTQI+ Cultural Pride campaign, the group painted the mural on a wall at the Johnson Ngwevela Community Hall. The hall stands on the corner of King Langalibalelele Drive and Church Street.
According to Langa LGBTQI+ Pride director Anele Gqasana, the mural symbolises love and unity. He explained that the initiative aims to create a welcoming environment for Langa’s LGBTQI+ community.
“After hosting the Langa LGBTQI+ Cultural Pride in 2023, we decided to continue supporting our members,” said Gqasana. Furthermore, he said the launch forms part of an ongoing education campaign that promotes visibility.
In addition, Gqasana noted that the mural encourages inclusivity regardless of sexual orientation or skin colour.
He also pointed out that the Johnson Ngwevela Community Hall sits at the heart of Langa and holds historical significance.
“Langa is a tourist destination,” he said. As a result, the mural occupies a prominent space within the area’s tourism hub, opposite the Guga S’thebe Cultural Centre.
Meanwhile, Langa Centenary Committee member Alfred Magwaca said the township openly welcomes members of the LGBTQI+ community.
“Langa accepts people for who they are, without discrimination,” said Magwaca. For this reason, the mural represents love, peace and unity.
Moreover, he praised the City for its support and thanked officials for making the wall of such an important community facility available.
At the same time, LGBTQI+ community member Yoliswa Mbelwa described the unveiling as a watershed moment.
“This gives us hope,” she said. Ultimately, the mural highlights unity in the area and encourages mutual acceptance and understanding.
