The LGBT community in the townships and rural areas of South Africa lives in grave danger to their lives. Despite protections guaranteed by the country's constitution, violent attacks against black, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are plaguing South Africa. Policy makers must urgently take measures to ensure the safety and human rights of the LBGT community through tougher sanctions for crimes and community education. South Africa is a pioneer in the fight for legal equality on LGBT issues such as civil partnerships and parental rights in adoption meanwhile they are failing lesbian and transgender people in their daily lives. Same-sex couples have been able to marry in South Africa since 2006, but the reaction towards people from the LGBT community is intolerance and prejudice which in most cases leads to violence. David Olyn, a 21-year-old gay man who had openly declared his sexuality, was brutally murdered by being tied with wire and then smashed in the head with a brick, before being stumped and set on fire. Barney van Heerden, 39, had acid poured on his body before being strangled to death for participating in transgender activities. Eudy Simelane was gang raped and stabbed to death. His body was then dumped in a stream outside Johannesburg. She was also targeted because of her sexual orientation. The Constitution of South Africa provides sanctions against discrimination against homosexuals and lesbians, but it is not enough: the laws must be implemented effectively. Reported cases of such violence against the LGBT community continue through the justice system, and cultural favoritism exists for those who conform to heteronormative activities. David Hessey, who works for the Gay and Lesbian Association, accuses the… medium of paper… ugh of ensuring adequate legislation. Supporters of the LGBT community must be sure to promote educational initiatives and protect the human rights of lesbian, gay and transgender people. In both South Africa and the United States of America, heterosexuality is the norm of society. Anything outside of this norm is unacceptable to many in both countries. True LGBT liberation means that they should be able to think, act, and exist in a space with those who might choose a more traditional lifestyle. This space should include equal respect and be free from the threat of physical violence. This violence against the LGBT community should serve as a rallying cry for every believer in human rights. This violence is also a reason for moral compassion to embrace other lifestyles that differ from a social norm. The LGBT community deserves the dignity, honor and grace afforded to every human being.