You're queer and you're here. So, what's there to do besides work? Plenty, Dorothy, plenty. South Africa's vibrant gay community has rights which are guaranteed by the constitution. In December 2006, they will become fifth country to legalise gay marriage following Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and Canada. Here are some resources to tap you in:

Behind the Mask
This group offers an outstanding resource for cutting-edge news on gay and lesbian affairs in Africa.

Lesbian and Gay Equality Project
Formerly The National Coalition For Gay and Lesbian Equality, this human rights organization lobbies against discriminatory practices by the government and the private sector.

The AIDS Foundation of South Africa
Based in Durban, this group's mission is to mobilise and manage resources for HIV/AIDS work in the country.

OUT

One of the oldest gay and lesbian organisations in South Africa, OUT provides a variety of support groups, community development and study groups for therapists.

Gay-Friendly South Africa

Here you will find gay-friendly business and travel information as well as a bit of history on the gay struggle in South Africa.

GALA

The Gay and Lesbian Archive provides a permanent institutional home for the wide range of historical and archival material relating to gay and lesbian experience in South Africa.

Out In Africa Film Festival

An annual event since 1994, Out In Africa is dedicated to strengthening the homegrown queer film industry. For more details, contact Sharon on sharon@oia.co.za or 021-422-2486.

Gay South Africa

Find accommodation, the local hot spots, browse business listings, read the news, and maybe even get a job.

Gay Teens

This section of the Gay SA offers support, understanding, and friendship to young people who are coming to terms with their sexuality.

The Gay & Lesbian Library

The library provides gay literature and films to Jo'burg's GBLT community. Located at 706 University Corner, University of the Witwatersrand, Braamfontein, it is open Saturday afternoons from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m. For more information phone 011-717-4239.

The Durban Lesbian and Gay Community & Health Centre

The centre is located on Mark Lane between Pine and West Streets in the CBD. Contact them on 031-301-2145 or e-mail info@gaycentre.org.za.

Gay Net Cape Town

This is a great resource for gay visitors in Cape Town which lists lodgings, entertainment venues, art galleries, and offers a selection of travel advice.

FYI On Gay Travel in Africa

South Africa is the only African country to recognise same-sex relationships and is the only nation on the continent where engaging in "homosexual activity" is not a crime. Therefore when traveling outside South Africa be very, very careful. Be sure to investigate the laws of any African country you plan to visit.