On 28 June, the vibrant Metsing Car Wash and Shisanyama came alive with music, colour and purpose as the SA Queer Movement hosted the first-ever Orange Farm Rainbow Event.
The celebration, held under the banner of #SAQueerMovement, marked a historic moment in the township’s journey toward equality, inclusion and safety for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The event drew an impressive crowd and featured a dynamic lineup of artists, including Bujy, Phelo Musiq, Letroy, Smoke Mirror, DJ De Carpe, DJ Kipstar, Nezzy, Real Fistos, Tebza and DJ Magic Touch, among others.
But beyond the music and entertainment, the event carried a powerful message: Queer lives matter and deserve dignity, safety and respect in every South African community.
“Our goal is to ensure that Orange Farm becomes a safe space for everyone, and that the LGBTQIA+ community is not just included, but celebrated. This is only the beginning. I’m planning to go even bigger next year,” said Nkululeko Sogula, chairperson of SA Queer Movement and founder of the Orange Farm Rainbow Event.
Calvin Nkosi, president of the SA Queer Movement and founder of the Midrand Rainbow Event, highlighted the broader vision of the organisation: “We’re advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights not only in communities, but also at parliamentary level, pushing for policies that stop violence, promote equality and encourage coexistence, humanity and compassion.”
“The SA Queer Movement has been active for over three years, mobilising Pride events across South Africa. The Orange Farm Rainbow Event is part of a larger, long-term strategy to combat hate crimes and discrimination while building bridges between the LGBTQIA+ community and the wider public. Inclusive & Impactful Programming,” Nkosi added.
In partnership with local stakeholders, the event also featured educational and empowerment initiatives, including: unisex toilet allocation; security and hospitality training on diversity and inclusion; customer service and pronoun workshops; career counselling and wellness promotion and support for small businesses.
This program offers a unique opportunity to drive positive change, promote diversity and empower the LGBTQIA+ community-while uniting Orange Farm in the spirit of acceptance, education and pride.
Images: Nkululeko Sogula
