By: Nhlanhla Ndlovu

The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) of Durban University of Technology (DUT) organised an awareness homosexual talk show last week at Mansfield Hall.

The discussion organised by the DUT HIV/AIDS Centre and LGBTI community, gathered students of the institution in trying to “raise awareness” and an understanding of their sexuality.

LGBTI co-ordinator in the institution, Melusi Dlamini revealed that the event is part of the pride walk from ML Sultan to Steve Biko Campus.

“We are trying to make people realise that this is not an invisible demographic but its people who are here. We are trying to claim their space,” he said.

Since some of the member of the organisation have been teased and attacked in the past, the event was based on educating students about gays and lesbians within the DUT community.

“There’s been limited engagement but those that have occurred have been positive. We trust that the more we do such things the more people will understand and participate in everything that we do,” Dlamini said.

Dlamini mention that after this week they will continue with their usual Friday sessions to discuss more topics.

The interactive engagement enlightened students on homosexual lifestyle and the challenges they face.

During the discussion, Mxolisi Ndlovu said that although he is gay he still treats himself as a man especially when it comes to traditional rituals.

“My uncle had a problem with my sexuality at first but he is okay now. At home when they are slaughtering a cow or a goat I assist because I am a man,” he said.

He revealed that he grew up spending most of his time with female friends since Primary school.

“When it comes to homosexuality, to some people it’s a lifestyle but to other people it’s who they are,” Ndlovu said.

Students came in their numbers to witness the engagement and some took part as members of the panel.

Sethabile Zuma, who represented women dating men, believes the homosexuality is not a bad thing.

“I feel like most DUT students fail to accommodate them but they are very open and friendly,” she said.