Queer youth say political parties not speaking to their needs

As South Africans prepare to cast their ballots on the 29th of May, queer youth in Johannesburg say political parties are not doing enough to appeal to them.

According to the Triangle Project, there are more than half a million LGBTQ+ people in South Africa, with most agreeing that more queer representation amongst political parties would increase LGBTQIA+ voter participation.

Speaking with YNews, the queer youth say the LGBTQ community has much more to offer the South African political landscape.

The young people were speaking at the “I AM ME” conference yesterday, a one-day event aimed at fostering greater inclusivity in the workplace, especially among disabled and queer people.

Attendee, Sam Boucher, who donned a black cape and bold red lipstick at the event, says outdated attitudes about gender must be rooted out of corporate South Africa. And as more queer youth enter the workforce, Boucher has encouraged the young people to go to work as their authentic selves.

‘Disability no excuse’

Meanwhile, members of the disabled community say their disabilities should not be used as an excuse not to employ them.

Below the knee-amputee, Maria Combrink, says it took her three years to find a job following her accident.

The disability activist, who works in the mining sector, lost her right leg due to an accident on the job.

Speaking with YNews, she’s highlighted some of the problems amputees often face, including problems accessing artificial limbs, which she claims can take up to eight years for some patients.

This is as concerns remain over the sidelining of disabled people from employment opportunities due social attitudes towards them, among others.

Combrink has encouraged young job seekers, who are physically disabled, to keep going for it, and not let the setbacks define them. Written by Naomi Kobbie