President Steenkamp: Do we still need Gay Pride?

Three short words. Six letters.

“I am gay.”

Difficult to say for most of us. Deeply agonizing for many. Impossible for some. Dangerous for others. I grew up in a place where homosexuality was regarded as immoral, in fact it was illegal. I hid from myself, my family and community.

It took a lot of courage for me to come out at age 38. Since then, I have been on a remarkable journey of self-discovery, and I am so grateful for the acceptance and support I find in this community.

In my video this week, I talk a bit more about my own journey and about the discrimination and persecution that LGBTQ2S+ people still face in many parts of the world. Homosexuality is still illegal in 69 countries, and there are 13 countries where it is legally punishable by death. That’s just one of the reasons why we still need Pride.

For all those people out there struggling with their sexual orientation or gender identity, and afraid of rejection and never finding love or support, please know this: there's a community that will embrace you, care for you and love you.

Happy Pride!