Cape Town - For the first time ever, the Western Cape legislature building has been lit up in rainbow colours, in celebration and support of Pride week, currently taking place in Cape Town.
Cape Town Pride is an organisation which works to raise awareness around the issues faced by the LGBTQI+ community. The building was lit up for the first time on Wednesday night, and it will remain lit every night until Sunday morning.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde will be speaking at the annual Pride Parade to be held in Green Point on Saturday. Western Cape Speaker, Masizole Mnqasela will also be in attendance.
Premier Winde said: “The Western Cape, and Cape Town in particular, is home to a large LGBTQI+ community and lighting up the legislature building is a symbol of our support for equal rights for everyone. This is a first for the Western Cape Legislature, but it wont be the last.
"We know that many people still face discrimination and violence as a result of their sexual or gender identity and this is our way of shining a light into those dark spaces and saying we are proud to stand up for diversity, equality and human rights."
Speaker Mnqasela said: "South Africa is a global leader when it comes to the protection of the rights of its citizens, including the rights of people of all sexual orientations. Our Constitution decriminalised homosexuality and in 2006 it became legal for same sex couples to get married. By illuminating the legislature building in the pride colours, we not only demonstrate our pride in our Constitution but also our pride as a true rainbow nation.
"We also acknowledge that the LGBTQI+ community still faces many challenges and prejudices on a daily basis and with this visible symbol we show our support to fighting for a truly inclusive South African society."
Saturday’s parade will start at midday in Chiappinni Street in De Waterkant and move towards Reddam Field at the Green Point Urban Park.
A moment of silence will also be observed to honour fallen members of the LGBT+ community.
At the Urban Park, the crowd will be entertained by some top local and international artists and bands.
Motorists are advised of rolling road closures along Somerset Road and Green Point Main Road from 11:00 to 13:00.
