“You Have to be Gay to Know God lends a welcome complexity and authenticity to the narratives of black, queer men in Africa.” This is according to book reviewer Megan Robertson.

Taking its cue from published reviews such as this one, the North-West University (NWU), in conjunction with the Pride Q’NNEXION student movement, hosted a gala dinner for the LGBTQI+) community on 13 September 2019 on the campus in Mahikeng, with author Siya Khumalo as the guest speaker.

Pride Q’NNEXION is a student movement that caters for the LGBTQI+ community, fostering a safe space for sexual minorities that form part of marginalised groups in society.

Siya writes about religion, politics and sex, and his biography You Have to Be Gay to Know God won the Desmond Tutu-Gerrit Brand Literary Prize.

He says he was impressed with how the NWU is embracing diversity among its students and staff.

“It is alarming that a lot of South Africans do not even attempt to disguise their homophobia when it comes to the LGBTQI+ community,” said Siya.

“We need to stand against the fact that there are not enough serious consequences for individuals who are guilty homophobic hate speech. It should not be normal and acceptable for people to be homophobic.”

Jim Molautsi, director for student life at the campus in Mahikeng, also reiterated that the NWU is an inclusive non-discriminatory institution which will always strive to create a welcoming teaching and learning environment for all its stakeholders.

 Siya Khumalo addresses the audience during the NWU LGBTQI+ gala dinner.

Siya Khumalo donated and autographed copies of his book during the event.