Vienna becomes the rainbow capital again: Vienna Pride starts on May 31
The organizers expected a total of 300,000 visitors. "We in Vienna stand shoulder to shoulder with the LGBTQIA+ community - side by side with everyone fighting for visibility, equal rights, and a life of dignity," said Deputy Mayor Bettina Emmerling (NEOS) on Monday.
This year, Pride holds special significance for the organizers, as the rights and visibility of LGBTIQ+ people are increasingly becoming a political issue again. "In some countries, this is already leading to massive setbacks," said Katharina Kacerovsky-Strobl, the organizer of Vienna Pride, at a press conference. Every person who supports Vienna Pride "stands against this and helps make our society more open and fair. We will not be divided," said Kacerovsky-Strobl.
Vienna as a "positive counterpoint" with room for improvement
Even though LGBTIQ+ organizations see Vienna as a "positive counterpoint" compared to the USA and Hungary, there is still room for improvement in Austria. "Whether it's the lack of protection against discrimination, the urgently needed ban on so-called conversion therapies, or the lack of protection and care for trans people - these conditions are inhumane," criticized Ann-Sophie Otte, chairwoman of HOSI Vienna. She called on the federal government for quick improvements here.
Thanks to the support of the City of Vienna, there will once again be a multi-day Pride Village from June 12 to 14 at Rathausplatz. The Village is intended to be the central meeting point for the LGBTIQ+ community, where they can exchange ideas and present themselves. There will also be a stage program with acts like Melanie C from the Spice Girls, Rose May Alaba, or Conchita Wurst.
Rainbow Parade as a colorful highlight in Vienna
In total, more than 50 events are on the program. The highlight is the Rainbow Parade, which will colorfully and loudly move over the Ring on June 14. "Especially now, a strong, united sign is needed: Pride is not a party hat. Pride is protest - and remains necessary until no one has to hide their love anymore," emphasized Vienna SPÖ councilor and LGBTQIA+ spokesperson Susanne Haase.
Following the terror threat against the Rainbow Parade two years ago, the events are accompanied by tight security measures. "We are in constant communication with the authorities," said organizer Kacerovsky-Strobl to the APA. According to current knowledge, however, there is no specific threat.
(APA/Red)
This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.