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This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
The Equality March is a peaceful demonstration organized to support the rights and equality of the LGBTQ+ community. It aims to draw attention to the issues of discrimination and violence faced by individuals belonging to this community, as well as to promote social dialogue and tolerance.
History of Equality Marches
The history of Equality Marches dates back to June 1969, when the Stonewall riots occurred in New York City. At that time, police raided the gay bar "Stonewall Inn," which sparked a wave of protests and riots among the LGBTQ+ community. These events became a catalyst for the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the U.S. and around the world. The first march commemorating the anniversary of the Stonewall riots took place in New York City in 1970 and became a starting point for many other cities.
Today, Equality Marches are held in many countries, including Ukraine. In our country, the first major Equality March took place in Kyiv in 2013. Since then, such marches have become an annual event that gathers thousands of participants and attracts significant media and public attention. They are held under the slogans of equality, human rights, and the fight against discrimination.
The organizers of Equality Marches are usually human rights organizations and activists who work to ensure the safety of participants and prepare the event. They often collaborate with the police and other state structures to maintain order during the demonstration.
The Equality March is not only about the rights of the LGBTQ+ community but also about protecting human rights in general. It is a platform for expressing solidarity, raising a voice for equality and justice, and reminding that every person deserves respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
It is important to note that participation in the Equality March is also an opportunity for allies of the LGBTQ+ community to express their support. This creates an atmosphere of unity and support that helps break down stereotypes and prejudices, as well as inspires further struggle for human rights.
Equality March in Kyiv
The Equality March in Kyiv in 2024, organized by the NGO "KyivPride," took place on June 16 and was the first since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This year's event was held under the slogan "Together for Equality and Victory" and gathered over 500 participants, including representatives of LGBTQ+ military with the banner "ArmUkraineNow".
Participants of the march only walked 100 meters due to restrictions set by the police, which allowed for the avoidance of conflicts and ensured the safety of participants. Despite the short distance, the event had great symbolic significance, as the revival of the march tradition during the war emphasizes the importance of equality and human rights even in such difficult times.
The march was also supported by the ambassadors of the United Kingdom and Sweden, and among Ukrainian deputies, only Dmytro Hurin attended the event. During the event, calls were made for the ratification of bills aimed at combating discrimination and introducing the institution of registered partnerships.
This year, the organizers also aimed to raise 4 million hryvnias to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which includes funding for various military units, meeting the medical needs of injured soldiers, as well as supplying drones and other equipment for the army.
Equality Marches, although facing resistance and criticism, play a key role in shaping a tolerant and inclusive society. They demonstrate that the path to equality is a path of solidarity, support, and understanding that begins with each of us.
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