2010 Student Research Conference:
23rd Annual Student Research Conference

Gay and Lesbian Rights in South Africa
Zakery D. Palmer
Dr. Elaine McDuff, Faculty Mentor

While apartheid served to oppress various minorities, including GLBT people, its opposition movement served as a catalyst for GLBT-positive legislation in South Africa. If it hadnt been for the opportunity to forge a new constitution for the country, with the idea of equal rights in mind, it is unlikely that South Africa would be where it is today in regards to the gains of the GLBT rights movement. The changing view of homosexuality as a human rights issue in South Africa was slow, but now South Africa is a world leader in the struggle for GLBT rights. While there are still mixed feelings toward homosexuals in South Africa, the country knows all too well the dangers of oppressing a minority based on personal feelings, which is what has set its GLBT rights movement apart.

Keywords: GLBT rights , South Africa , anti-apartheid movement , human rights

Topic(s):Democracy and Human Rights in South Africa

Presentation Type: Oral Paper

Session: 56-4
Location: MG 1090
Time: 3:00

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