Members of the public have been urged to stop the growing trend of abusing and discriminating against LGBTQ+ persons, especially on social media and other digital platforms as every person deserves to live with dignity, respect and safety regardless of their sexual orientation or identity.
This was said during the campaign launched by the Botswana Network on Ethics, Law and HIV/AIDS (BONELA), in partnership with the Botswana Council of Non-Governmental Organisations (BOCONGO).
The campaign was held under the theme ‘Unite to End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.’ It highlighted the increasing abuse faced by women, girls and LGBTIQ persons through online platforms, including cyberbullying, image-based violence, online stalking, grooming, doxxing and the spread of AI-generated deep fakes.
In an interview with Kgosi Cosmos Lelathego of Moeti ward in Maun, he said discrimination, stigma and rejection of LGBTQ individuals contributes to emotional trauma, violence and social isolation.
He said it is worrying that some people continue to use culture and traditions as an excuse to justify hate, abuse and unfair treatment, adding that such behaviour goes against the values of botho and unity that Botswana stands for.
Kgosi Lelathego emphasised that as a society, people must learn to accept and protect one another, especially those who are often marginalised and misunderstood.
“We cannot claim to be fighting gender-based violence while at the same time turning our backs on other members of our communities. Violence is violence, whether it is against women, men or the LGBTQ community,” he said.
Advocacy groups say discrimination often increases on the internet because people hide behind anonymous accounts or feel empowered to use hurtful language. They warn that such behaviour contributes to mental health challenges, fear, and social isolation among LGBTQ+ individuals.
He encouraged community members to take time to learn about LGBTQ+ identities instead of relying on stereotypes or assumptions. They explain that education is an important tool in reducing discrimination, adding that no one should be targeted or judged for who they are.
Kgosi Lelatlhego further called on parents, community leaders and religious institutions to play a role in teaching acceptance and tolerance, noting that their words and actions influence how society treats vulnerable groups.
The traditional leader stressed that no one should live in fear because of who they are.
Meanwhile Katlego Sechele, Programmes Coordinator of BONELA highlighted the importance of including everyone in the fight against GBV. She said the campaign should not only focus on women and children but also consider vulnerable groups who often suffer in silence.
She said the recent acts of brutality targeting LGBTIQ persons in Botswana also reaffirm the urgent need to confront both online and offline violence, especially hate-motivated attacks. “BONELA condemns all forms of discrimination and violence, and we remain steadfast in advocating for inclusive, equitable, and safe environments for all,” she added.
Sechele added that the 16 Days of Activism serves as a reminder that communities must unite to end all forms of violence, discrimination and abuse.
