The Johannesburg Pride March will commemorate its 35th anniversary this year, representing more than three decades of empowerment, activism, and celebration for the LGBTQ+ community in South Africa and across the African continent. Pride began in 1990 as a bold stand for equality and has grown into a dynamic, exuberant celebration of identity, love, and freedom, all while advocating for social justice and inclusiveness.
With the theme “Proudly African”, Authentically You”, Pride of Africa 2024 promises to be a landmark event, bringing together diverse communities to honour the past, celebrate victories, and look towards a future that embraces equality for all. As one of the most anticipated cultural events in the city, Johannesburg Pride is expected to attract thousands of participants, allies, and supporters from across South Africa and beyond.
This year’s Pride march will take place on Saturday, 26th October, starting at West Street and proceeding through the vibrant streets of Sandton, with various activations and performances celebrating the rich diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. A powerful lineup of local and international artists will take to the stage, while inclusive marketplaces will showcase LGBTQ+ businesses and creators, fostering connection and visibility. The day will culminate in an evening of entertainment, with performances representing the full spectrum of the community’s creativity, spirit, and pride.
Kaye Ally, founder and director of Pride of Africa Foundation, reflected on the significance of this milestone: “Thirty-five years of Pride is an incredible journey, one built on the strength and resilience of our community. From the early days, when we marched in defiance of oppressive laws, to today, where we celebrate our diverse identities, Pride has always been a force for positive change. While we celebrate how far we’ve come, we also remain focused on the work that lies ahead ensuring that every person can live freely, without fear or discrimination. Pride 2024 is not just about honoring our past, but also about embracing the future and continuing the fight for equality for everyone.”
The Pride of Africa Foundation has grown beyond a single annual event, becoming a powerful platform for raising awareness on critical issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, mental health, and healthcare access, particularly around HIV/AIDS and IPV (intimate partner violence). This year’s event will also focus on fostering a sense of inclusion and solidarity, addressing intersectionality within the community, and amplifying the voices of marginalised groups, including queer people of colour, transgender individuals, and those living in rural areas.
To bring this vision to life, the Pride of Africa Foundation is thrilled to announce the growing support from globally conscious and diverse entities whose commitment to Pride increases yearly. The Pride of Africa sponsors include Jean Paul Gaultier, Google, Jägermeister, Amazon, The Travel Boss, GBV Rescue Fund, Wits Health Consortium, Baker McKenzie, Ernst & Young, Webber Wentzel, Mercedes-Benz South Africa, Standard Chartered Bank, and Clyde & Co. In addition, Sowaar Bar will serve as the official beverage operator.
In an exciting collaboration, The Gautrain will be supporting the event by providing 100 free passes, ensuring that even more people can attend and take part in the celebrations. The inclusion of these passes is part of Pride’s commitment to accessibility and ensuring that everyone, regardless of circumstance, can participate in this historic celebration of equality and love.
Pride of Africa 2024 is steadfast in its commitment to sustainability. The entire event is intended to be environmentally conscientious, with all waste recycled and no motorised floats—just electric cars and the power of people marching for change.This method emphasises the ideas of openness and equality that inspire the movement, ensuring that everyone marches with a common goal.
Sponsors include:
- Jean Paul Gaultier
- Jägermeister
- Amazon
- The Travel Boss
- GBV Rescue Fund
- Wits Health Consortium
- Baker McKenzie
- Ernst & Young
- Webber Wentzel
- Mercedes-Benz South Africa
- Standard Chartered Bank
- Clyde & Co
- Sowaar Bar
Six things you need to know and take from the march is that , the pride much holds significant importance for several reasons:
- Visibility, It provides a platform for LGBTQ+ individuals to be visible in society, fostering awareness and understanding about their rights and experiences.
- Celebration of Identity, encouraging individuals to embrace their authentic selves without fear of judgment or discrimination.
- Advocacy for Rights, powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles for equality and human rights, advocating for legal protections and societal acceptance.
- Community Building, helps to unite LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, fostering a sense of community and support, which is vital for mental well-being.
- Education and Awareness, to inform the public about LGBTQ+ issues, challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers of ignorance.
- Legacy of Resistance, commemorate the historical struggles and achievements of the LGBTQ+ rights movement, honoring those who fought for change
The LGBTQ+ Pride March is not just a celebration; it is a vital event that promotes visibility, acceptance, and advocacy for equal rights.