June is International Pride Month, a period dedicated to celebrating the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community. This is an important event for the LGBTQAI+ community, as it commemorates the Stonewall riots in the United States that took place in June 1969, where the people stood up against the government and fought for LGBTQAI+ issues, promoting equal rights, and fostering inclusivity and acceptance.
In 2023, the Health Sciences Transformation committee decided to spread awareness about Pride Month and to celebrate their LGBTQAI+ staff and students. The Health Sciences buildings, all have posters promoting inclusivity and equality, and this year they decided to extend this project.
Four years ago, Llizane McDonald, a lecturer in the Department of Emergency Medical Sciences, started a workshop aimed at teaching her students about the LGBTQAI+ community. “In our profession, we work with patients, which means that we can't be biased. We can't judge and every single one needs to be treated the same. And one of the ways that we can do that is by being informed,” says McDonald. The workshop is now also being presented in other departments of the Health Sciences Faculty.
McDonald is reaching out to any students or staff members from the LGBTQAI+ community to contact her with any concerns, questions, or for support. She identifies as a proud member of the LGBTQAI+ community and is an advocate for gay rights, equality and awareness. She can be contacted via email (mcdonaldl@cput.ac.za) should anyone need to reach out.
