Tutu supports LGBTI drive

RETIRED archbishop Desmond Tutu, pictured, has became the 1 000th face of the Scalabrini Centre’s Let’s Face It campaign.

The campaign was established in support and understanding of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) community. The campaign, which began on Human Rights Day in March, has become a regular feature of Cape Town street festivals.

It was organised by the Scalabrini Centre, a refugee outreach centre, particularly for LGBTI refugees from countries such as Uganda and Nigeria, where being gay is a crime.

Scalabrini Centre human rights officer Neil Goodwin said: “The archbishop kindly came out of retirement to lend his face to this campaign, and was the perfect candidate to take us over the finishing line.

“He has been a huge inspiration to many in the battle for open hearts and minds towards the LGBTI community, both here and across the world.”

Tutu has admitted himself to a Cape Town hospital for treatment after suffering from a recurring infection. His daughter, Thandeka Tutu-Gxashe, said: “He is expected to remain in hospital for a week or two. He underwent similar treatment last year.”

After hearing about his frail health, many have come forward to wish him a speedy recovery.