GEORGE NEWS - George Municipality LGBTQI Help Desk, in partnership with Social Health and Empowerment (SHE), Legally You, Phakamani Makhosikazi, Community in Blue, and SAHARA, held a landmark work session at Thembalethu Thusong Centre yesterday, 26 May, to address hate crimes against LGBTQI individuals. 

The event drew a diverse crowd, including parents, elderly groups, people with disabilities, and youth, reflecting strong community support for ending discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Khanyisile Fortuin, Special Projects Coordinator, called the session a vital step toward a safer, more inclusive George. 

Attendees learned practical tools for documenting human rights violations, led by SHE social worker Bernelee Wonderlik. 

Adv. Marilyn Olifant-Scheepers provided insights on legal support for Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), while Sahara’s Pumlani Relese facilitated a SOGIE workshop to challenge stereotypes and foster understanding.

Khanyisile Fortuin, Special Projects Coordinator at George Municipality, and Cllr Thandiswa Qatana addressing the group at the Thembalethu Thusong Centre.

“This is about action, not just talk,” Relese said, highlighting the role of education in changing attitudes and policies. 

Fortuin announced plans for an LGBTQI safety strategy to be integrated into George’s Community Safety Plan, targeting crime hotspots. 

For support, contact the Community Development Department at 044 802 2000 or email jfortuin@george.gov.za.

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