South Africa: Parent Who Went Beyond Everything to Fight for Their Kids

A Mother’s Courage in the Face of Violence and Discrimination

In a small South African community, a mother’s unwavering love and resilience have sparked a conversation about acceptance, justice, and the rights of children to live free from violence. This is the story of Kwenzi Chiliza, a parent who refused to be silent when her 12-year-old child was brutally attacked for expressing themselves differently from the gender assigned at birth.

Background: A Community Confronts Its Biases

Before this incident, Kwenzi’s life was like that of many parents focused on raising her child with love and care. But everything changed when her child, who often dressed in clothing typically associated with boys, became the target of a neighbour’s rage. The neighbour, a 35-year-old cisgender man, beat the child close to death in front of his own family. His justification? That Kwenzi’s child was “influencing” his daughter to dress differently and “become lesbian.”

The attack was not only violent but deeply rooted in prejudice. Instead of protecting the victim, the system failed. Despite Kwenzi opening a case with support from activists, the perpetrator was granted bail. Political connections shielded him, and the investigation stalled. Court dates were postponed repeatedly until the case was cancelled because of lack of evidence even though photographic proof of the injuries existed, thanks to the quick thinking of an ally, Sazi Jali.

This was the beginning of Kwenzi’s fight not just for her child’s safety, but for justice and dignity.

The Turning Point: Mobilising for Justice

When the system turned its back, Kwenzi turned to the power of community and advocacy. She reached out to Gender Links and allied organisations, determined to make her voice heard. Together, they mobilised support, used social media to amplify the injustice, and demanded accountability from the South African Police Service (SAPS), especially during IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia).

Her persistence paid off. The case was reopened, and the conversation about protecting queer children gained momentum. Kwenzi’s courage became a beacon for other parents, showing that love and acceptance can challenge even the most entrenched biases.

The Change: Love That Inspires a Movement

What changed?

 It started with one mother’s refusal to give up. Today, other parents in the community are rethinking their attitudes. They have witnessed Kwenzi’s unconditional love supporting her child without judgement and it has inspired them to stand by their own children. Some even joined Durban Pride alongside Kwenzi and her allies, a powerful symbol of solidarity.

This shift is not just anecdotal; it is visible in actions. The reopened court case is evidence of accountability. Parents who once stayed silent are now speaking out against violence and discrimination. The ripple effect of Kwenzi’s bravery is transforming hearts and minds.

Voices of Change:

I love my child—straight, lesbian or trans—my child is mine. No one has the right to beat her up like a criminal — Kwenzi Chiliza

I will fight for her until my last breath — Kwenzi Chiliza

Beating someone will not change how they identify — Sazi Jali, Advocate and Ally

Sustainability and Next Steps

The journey is far from over. Kwenzi continues to walk her child to school every day to ensure safety. The community is rallying behind her, but legal battles remain. The next step is securing a pro bono lawyer to pursue justice and set a precedent that violence against queer children will not be tolerated.

This story is more than a personal struggle, but it is a call to action. It reminds us of that gender equality, and human rights are not abstract ideals; they are lived realities that require courage, solidarity, and systemic change.

By: Kwenzi Chilliza