OUR PROJECTS
Recognizing the enormity of the challenges our community faces, Queer Pride Botswana is dedicated to making a lasting impact through our campaigns and programs. Our work is to create spaces for sharing, connection and building a real sense of community. Through our various project, we engage with activists, artists, creators, and community members to create platforms that bring us all together in pride and unity.
PRIDE NIGHT BW
we successfully collaborated with local advocacy organizations, activists, artists and businesses to give Botswana her first LGBTQIA Pride Night following the decriminalization of same-sex sexual acts by the High Court of BOtswana. In subsequent editions this will be an annual event that will feature a pride march, panel discussions and other activities.
The inaugural Pride Night was hosted at The No.1 Ladies CoffeeHouse on the evening of June 28 2019. Pride Night not merely a celebration but is designed to be a safe space for LGBTQIA person and their allies to commune and celebrate diversity through shared stories and building support networks in a safe environment.
The evening featured;
• a screening of Trans* Activist Kolanyane-Kesupile’s short film
“Mponeng”,
• live music performances by musicians Louisa April and Nicole Martinez,
• an open mic session where members of the community shared thoughts and experiences,
• and proceeded into a night of music and dance in a safe space for LGBTQ persons and allies.
In keeping with the message of safe sexual practices and sexual responsibility, leading advocacy organization Lesbians Gays and Bisexuals of Botswana (LEGABIBO) sponsored free condoms, dental dams and finger cots to attendants, while Tebelopele Voluntary Counseling and Testing Center set up a free clinic for HIV and STI screening as well as PrEP dispensary. Our venue partners set up a discount on drinks for the night for attendant’s maximal enjoyment.