Cape Verde is a tolerant country and also a friendly holiday destination for LGBTQ+ individuals. The island of São Vicente, particularly the city of Mindelo, is considered a gay-friendly destination. According to a 2020 survey by Afrobarometer, Cape Verde was rated as the most LGBTQ+ friendly country in Africa. The majority of respondents in this opinion poll expressed tolerance towards individuals with different sexual identities/orientations. For instance, 80% of Cape Verdeans stated that they would be fine or have no issue with having a homosexual neighbor. According to the research, Cape Verde is also the most tolerant country on the African continent.
Since 2004, it has been legal to be homosexual in Cape Verde, and it is no longer a problem in public life. However, despite the ongoing development of cultural attitudes towards LGBTQ+ issues in Cape Verde, there are still challenges. Traditional views on gender and sexuality are examples of such challenges. Various LGBTQ+ associations and public organizations in Cape Verde support further acceptance efforts.
What does LGBTQ+ actually stand for?
LGBTQ+ is an abbreviation that stands for:
- Lesbian: a homosexual woman;
- Gay: a homosexual man;
- Bisexual: a person who is attracted to both men and women;
- Transgender: individuals whose gender identity does not match the sex assigned to them at birth;
- Queer: individuals who do not categorize their sexual preference into traditional labels;
- +: the plus sign indicates that the abbreviation is inclusive of individuals who identify differently than what the letters stand for. For example, individuals who identify as asexual or pansexual.
LGBTQ+ Prides in Cape Verde
The Pride festival is the largest celebration of equality, acceptance, and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community. It is celebrated in various locations around the world, including Cape Verde. The first pride parade took place on June 29, 2013, in the city of Mindelo on the island of São Vicente, where the world-famous carnival processions also occur. The pride event was organized by the Cape Verdean LGBTQ organization, Cabo Verde LGBT. In addition to the traditional parade in the center of Mindelo, there were also debates, exhibitions, and, of course, parties. The Cabo Verde Prides, as they are called, are gaining popularity. In 2019, the second pride took place in the capital city of Praia, and this will certainly not be the last pride event.
Entertainment and nightlife
When it comes to entertainment and nightlife, the larger cities are the place to be. Places like Mindelo (São Vicente), Praia (Santiago), and Santa Maria (Sal) offer plenty of entertainment options and a lively nightlife scene with bars and clubs. At the time of writing, there is no specific information available about gay clubs
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