The Guardian:
Despite the new law, which gives same-sex couples the right to marry legally, many South Africans still oppose gay marriage and homosexuality. Conservative churches have vocally stated their opposition to the marriages, and many traditional groups denounce homosexuality as “un-African.” And gay men and lesbians often face violence in Soweto and other townships across South Africa.
Many members of parliament of the ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), have voiced their disapproval, but the bill was passed because [President Thabo] Mbeki and other party leaders pressed all members to vote in favour of the legislation.
The ANC said the party must support the country’s constitution, which was the first in the world to specifically prohibit discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Many gays and lesbians had supported the struggle against apartheid.
In contrast, many African countries make homosexuality a crime carrying severe punishments. Even in South Africa, [Vernon] Gibbs and [Tony] Halls have had a difficult time. Their guest lodge, Arendehoogte, which means Eagle Heights in Afrikaans, was publicly vilified by the local Dutch Reformed church, which objected to the couple welcoming gay tourists. The lodge was vandalised five times.
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By sex toys, August 22 at 5:21 am #
It’s a pity but not only South Africa granted same-sex marriage privileges. This couples also could be happy in Spain, Canada, Belgium, Norway and the Netherlands. Think I’m gonna live in CIS, where people aren’t so OPEN MINDED.
Report thisBy Baky Right, February 8, 2007 at 3:46 am #
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An abomination!
Report thisBy Broiler, December 5, 2006 at 2:33 pm #
(Unregistered commenter)
Those are two “game” rangers!
Just shows to go ya, there’s someone for everyone.
Report thisLighten up folks!
By raul de leon garcia de paredes, December 5, 2006 at 10:09 am #
(Unregistered commenter)
im a gay man in panama and want to marry an african man with a big heart..
im lonley
Report thisBy Rick, December 5, 2006 at 9:10 am #
(Unregistered commenter)
Again, other countries have to lead the way to reasoned equality.
And we’re (US) supposed to be living in a republic where government is NOT controlled by religion… yeah right.
Report thisBy Dr. Knowitall, PhD, PhD, December 5, 2006 at 4:12 am #
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This looks like a job for Mitt Romney. He straightened out the ailing olympics, now he can set straight those sexually wayward Africans. GAWD!, what’s this world comin’ to?
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