Simphiwe Dana on coming out as gay – “This is me"

On Thursday evening, South African actress and musician, Simphiwe Dana took to Twitter to share her sexuality with her followers.

In a series of tweets, the Nzima hit-maker announced that she was gay and revealed that she would be getting married to Berlin-based opera singer, Pumeza Matshikiza. 

Read More| “You’re as good as your last performance”- Simphiwe Dana

“I’ve been holding this in since forever. I’m gay,” she wrote.

“I’m marrying her. She’s coming home to me today. We are so happy,” she captioned a picture of Matshikiza.

She then continued to explain how she anticipated to receive backlash for coming out but said she had made peace with that.

In a country where LGBTI+ individuals often have to hide their sexuality because of the fear of shame, being cast out and in many instances, violence - Dana's coming out will hopefully encourage more conversations around sexuality and gender, and will work towards breaking down the stigma and hatred that's often inflicted on LGBTI+ bodies.

While there were mixed reactions to her sharing her truth, it was a brave and bold step that we hope will have a positive influence on matters related to LGBTI+ in SA.

Earlier this year Generations: The Legacy actress, Letoya Makhene also came out as lesbian after confirming that she was in a relationship with Lebohang Keswa. The couple has since gotten engaged.