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George municipality hosts groundbreaking LGBTQI work session to combat hate crimes

The George Municipality LGBTQI Help Desk, in collaboration with Social Health and Empowerment (SHE), Legally You, Phakamani Makhosikazi, and Community in Blue and Smoking and Alcohol Harms Alleviation and Rehabilitation Association (SAHARA), hosted a pivotal work session aimed at ending hate crimes against LGBTQI individuals.
The session, held at Thembalethu Thusong Centre, drew a diverse and engaged audience, including parents of LGBTQI individuals, elderly groups, people living with disabilities, and youth. This inclusive participation highlighted the growing community resolve to stand against discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
“This session was a powerful step in ensuring that every individual in our municipality’s jurisdiction feels safe, seen, and supported,” said Khanyisile Fortuin, Special Projects Coordinator at George Municipality. “Through education, dialogue, and action, we are building a stronger, more inclusive George.”
The session focused on equipping attendees with tools to document human rights violations effectively. Bernelee Wonderlik, Social Worker at Social Health and Empowerment (SHE), led an interactive session on the process of lodging cases, empowering victims and allies alike with crucial knowledge.
The programme also addressed critical issues such as Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), with Adv. Marilyn Olifant-Scheepers offering expert insights into legal frameworks and support mechanisms. Pumlani Relese of SAHARA facilitated an impactful SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression) workshop to deepen understanding and dismantle stereotypes.
“This initiative is not just about conversation—it’s about action,” said Pumlani Relese. “Education and engagement are essential to change hearts, policies, and outcomes.”
Closing the event, Fortuin emphasised the forthcoming implementation of a comprehensive LGBTQI safety plan. This plan aims to identify crime hotspots and ensure that LGBTQI safety is an integral part of the broader George Community Safety Plan.
For more information or assistance from the LGBTQI help desk please phone 044 802 2000 for the Community Development Department or email Khanyisile Fortuin at jfortuin@george.gov.za

Photos:

Adv Marilyn Olifant-Scheepers addressing the attendees at the LGBTQI work session.
Khanyisile Fortuin, Special Projects Coordinator at George Municipality, and Cllr Thandiswa Qatana addressing the group at the Thembalethu Thusong Centre.