Loud and proud

Revellers unfurl an enormous rainbow flag in Valletta yesterday during the annual Pride March. Not only were the participants loud and proud, but so were the colours adorning the capital city yesterday afternoon

The Pride 2019 parade was in full swing in Valletta yesterday as members of the LGBTIQ+ community, as well as equality advocates and supporters, took to the streets for the annual celebration.

Some present explained that while Malta ranks first among the EU countries with regard LGBT rights, they believe Pride Week is still important because what is in legislation and what is experienced on a day-to-day basis are two different realities.

Pride Week is an occasion to bring the LGBT community together while also being a social and political tool rather than a celebration. There is a lot to celebrate but it still remains a platform for visibility that the LGBT community as a demographic exists, matters, but also has issues.

Although there are gay bars and parties, these might attract a small percentage of the LGBT community. This is one way of getting to know people and learning about their experiences.

Pride Week covers a whole set of events that might attract a different kind of people and also an opportunity to highlight the issues that are important to the LGBT community.

There were messages yesterday in favour of the relaxation of blood donation regulations, and others calling for equality and an end to discrimination.

Some floats even feature other political messages, such as calls for an end to deportations of irregular migrants and messages against racism.

Opposition leader Adrian Delia noted that people from many walks of life were participating in the event, which is positive: “People are not only here to show that they are part of the LGBT community, but also to show their support,” he said. “It is important that we remove as many barriers as possible, wherever they may be, and whomever they may impact.”

Equality Minister Edward Zammit Lewis said Pride March is a celebration, but also a message. “We have done a lot over the past six years and I am here as a message that we will be doing much more. There is an action plan, clear objectives that we want to reach. This is a clear message that we will keep pushing to reach these targets an equal society in all aspects.”

Parliamentary Secretary Anthony Agius Decelis said “social exclusion is at the centre of our policies. We do not want anyone to be socially excluded and we are working with one aim – to bring social inclusion to all people who live in this country. We do not want barriers, or to put people into pigeon boxes, but an inclusive society where everyone feels part of the mainstream.”

The Malta Independent is a Pride Week media partner.