Somizi calls for respect and education after Ngizwe Mchunu’s shocking anti-LGBTQIA+ rant
Somizi Mhlongo has addressed his concerns following offensive comments from media figure Ngizwe Mchunu directed at the LGBTQIA+ community.
Ngizwe found himself facing backlash after he was barred from entering the Kwa Mai-Mai traditional market.
The prohibition came after he publicly criticized a same-sex couple for donning traditional Zulu attire, known as imvunulo, during their wedding.
In a series of online statements, Ngizwe escalated his remarks, suggesting that Somizi and others within the LGBTQIA+ community should “leave the country.”
In a composed yet assertive response, Somizi viewed the situation as a chance for greater understanding and education.
“There was a missed opportunity to educate each other that was missed. I’m Zulu; I did not know there’s an imvunulo that can only be worn by the royals. I did not know that,” he explained.
In the face of criticism, Somizi reflected on the valuable lessons learned from the incident.
“With all the anger and the noise that was happening, I was able to find something I could learn from. That was a teachable moment for me, and I believe it should be respected. That is not negotiable, and I’m encouraging everyone to do that.”
He encouraged LGBTQIA+ individuals to respond thoughtfully rather than with hostility.
“The Human Rights Commission has to do something to make sure this does not continue. He needs to know he can’t wake up and decide people must be killed; their anger is misdirected. There’s so many things that are happening,” he stated.
Somizi also emphasized the importance of mutual respect and reminded his audience that his identity should not be mistaken for vulnerability.
“Respect goes a long way. Tone changes everything. It’s not what you said; it’s how you said it. Know which battles to fight and respond to. Know which things to react to. Never confuse my sexuality for weakness. Never confuse my wearing weaves for weakness. It’s just that I’m a better and bigger person.”
Trans activist Yaya Mavundla joined the conversation, condemning Ngizwe’s comments as harmful and discriminatory.
“Here’s my thing: that guy is saying LGBTQIA+ people should not wear traditional attire; he’s suggesting we create our own, which is problematic. Just because you are a gay man, trans, lesbian, bisexual, or intersex doesn’t mean imvelaphi yakho and your culture is erased,” Yaya pointed out.
She further criticized the lack of response from traditional leaders, stating, “To make matters worse, Isilo and his team have not said anything. He is not a spokesperson for anyone; therefore, he knows his place in society. If the attire is reserved for Isilo, which I believe everyone would respect, we will not wear it, but any other attire not formally reserved for leaders or specific people that any person of a certain culture is allowed to wear, the LGBTQIA+ people have every right to wear it.”
