ILGA World Conference 2024: the story behind our logo – ILGA World

The narrative behind this logo (Siphakamile*) designed for ILGA World and their highly-anticipated conference in the vibrant city of Cape Town in 2024. Head with us into a realm where history, resilience and pride intertwine.

Imagine a breathtaking baobab tree, its majestic branches reaching for the heavens, its roots firmly embedded in the rich soil of our diverse and magnificent world. In a stroke of artistic brilliance, the baobab’s foundation seamlessly merges with the very essence of ILGA World, creating a stunning visual illusion where ILGA World becomes the nourishing root of this emblematic tree. This enchanting design choice represents ILGA World’s role as the driving force behind our fight for equality and as the nurturing core of our LGBTIacronym for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex people. Although this is not the acronym available to describe people of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and sex characteristics, it is the most commonly used in United Nations spaces and advocacy. More community.

The Siphakamile features circular shapes, representing the lush greenery of the Baobab tree, while also symbolising the 12 South African official languages (on May 3, 2023, the National Assembly approved the amendment to the South African Constitution, adding South African Sign Language, or SASL, as an official language.)

The baobab shape was purposely drawn to echo the South African flag, its shapes interweaving with the baobab’s contours. Symbolising the inseparable bond between the conference and its host country, reinforcing the shared journey towards progress, acceptance and unity. Just as a note: the “Y” shape in the flag’s design represents the convergence of diverse cultures, languages and backgrounds in South Africa.

The typography draws inspiration from the captivating artistry of Khoisan rock art, the chosen typography reverberates with the vibrant spirit of African culture, forging a profound connection to our roots and honouring the traditions that have shaped our collective identity.

The vibrant colours do not need a lot of explanation. Borrowing from our iconic rainbow flag, they radiate with the hues of our collective diversity.

Siphakamile should serve as a reminder of our indomitable spirit. We, the queerpreviously used as a derogatory term to refer to LGBT individuals in the English language – and still perceived as offensive by some – queer has been reclaimed by people who identify beyond traditional gender categories and heteronormative social norms. Although not universally accepted, it is often used as a catch-all to include many people within the larger community of people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and sex characteristics. More humans, stand tall and resolute, firmly rooted in the rich tapestry of history and driven by an unyielding belief in our right to live authentically and love without bounds.

May Siphakamile ignite a fiery passion within your soul—a passion that embraces the profound connection between ILGA World and our flourishing community. Together, let us continue to advocate fearlessly, amplify marginalised voices and nurture a world where equality, justice and human rights thrive.

Kwa umoja we rise! _ikwa umoja nos levantamos!