In Zimbabwe, LGBTQ+ artists dodge discrimination to stay on stage
It is tough making a living as an LGBTQIA+ performer in Zimbabwe – the economy is in disarray and homophobic heckling is an occupational hazard.
But in a country where gay sex remains illegal and LGBTQIA+ people often face discrimination and harassment, gay and transgender musicians, poets and other artists are finding ways to stay on stage. “To get gigs in the corporate world, your brand has to be extra good because before everything else, your sexuality/gender identity already disadvantages you,” said Stewie Le Savage, a 27-year-old trans musician based in the city of Bulawayo.
Because of that, she waits for events hosted by civil society organisations (CSOs) that aim to support inclusivity. “Whatever is happening around the CSO space, I try to use that space,” said Le Savage, who uses Afrocentric dance music and spoken word poetry to express the tales of marginalised youth in Zimbabwe.
Another musician and dancer, who asked not to be named, said she now performs solely at private gatherings after audience members at a public event shouted abuse at her and threw bottles on stage during her performance. “People tend to focus more on your sexuality than your talent,” she added.
