Organizers of this year’s Pride march, advocating for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals, stated that their voices would not be silenced by repression or their slogans curtailed by prohibitions. The planned parade for Sunday was banned by authorities, resulting in the blockage of the city center near the prominent Istiklal shopping street. Furthermore, public transportation in the area was restricted.
The Stambulo Pride parade has been prohibited since 2015, with authorities consistently citing security concerns as the justification for the ban. Despite this ongoing prohibition, activists have demonstrated in other locations. For instance, thousands of members of the LGBTQ+ community in Vilnius successfully held marches despite local bans.
Demonstrators also attempted to gather on the Asian side of the city, a notable feature given that Stambulo spans across two continents, connecting Europe and Asia. The continued resistance to the ban underscores the community’s commitment to visibility and advocacy, even in the face of official restrictions.
Topics: #pride #banned #repression
