Despite warnings of a potential terror plot against the event, thousands of people turned out to defiantly celebrate in the streets of Johannesburg for the city’s Pride parade.
The event, which took place on Saturday, the 29th of October, was the first Pride parade in the city for two years due to Covid bringing the LGBTQ+ community and allies together to march in solidarity.
Accompanied by a significant police presence, the parade was almost called off after reports emerged that a terror attack could take place.
The warning, which the US government issued on Wednesday, the 26th of October, included information that suggested terrorists were planning an attack in Sandton, where Pride took place.
The warning resulted in government officials advising against large gatherings and events over the weekend.
Lethuxolo Shange, an attendee at the parade, told Reuters: “Someone threatening to kill us is very, very scary, but it’s not the first time and sadly will not be to last.”
“We’re not going to let people terrorise us,” the 24-year-old added.
Despite the fears, the parade continued with no issues or reports of violence.
