In addition to campaigns around mental health, breast cancer and cybersecurity awareness, October also marks Pride Month. This is an opportunity to celebrate and foster a more inclusive and welcoming environment for LGBTQIA+ students and staff at the University the Pretoria (UP). It sends a clear message that all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, are valued and supported within the UP community.

As part of awareness efforts, the Department of Facilities Management in collaboration with the Student Representative Council (SRC) endeavoured to paint the pedestrian walkway in front of the Faculty of Law building (on Hatfield campus) in rainbow markings.

“We hope that this symbolic gesture will help to combat stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination, and that it will be instrumental in the promotion of equality, while fostering a more informed and accepting campus community,” said Kgomotso Legari, Director of Residence Affairs and Accommodation, who is also serving as Acting Director of Student Affairs. “UP is a safe, inclusive space for everyone and stands by its values, especially in terms of respect for one another within a diverse community.”

Legari explained that the SRC had submitted a strong motivation for the University to show its solidarity with LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Nontsikelelo Loteni, Director of the Transformation Office at UP, encouraged everyone to rally behind the LGBTQIA+ community – not just during Pride Month, but every day.

“Observing Pride Month encourages allyship, where individuals who may not identify as LGBTQIA+ can actively support and stand in solidarity with the community,” Loteni said. “This helps to create a more united and compassionate campus. UP’s Anti-Discrimination Policy embraces everyone’s diversity without fear or favour.”

Both Legari and Loteni expressed their shared vision for UP to serve as a beacon of exceptional academic excellence and personal development. They believe that the celebration of Pride Month plays a pivotal role in cultivating a campus that is characterised by diversity and cultural awareness, while also nurturing a culture rooted in respect and understanding that has the potential to ripple out into the broader community.