Thousands march in Ukraine for LGBT rights, safety
KYIV, Ukraine – Some 7,000 people gathered in Ukrainian capital on Sunday for the annual March for Equality in support of the rights of the country’s LGBT community.
Equipped with colorful costumes and rainbow flags, the crowd marched down the central streets of Kyiv, some carrying banners reading “Fight for right!” Participants announced eight demands for Ukrainian authorities, including legalization of civil partnerships for LGBT people and laws against LGBT hate crimes.
The march was guarded by police, who sought to prevent clashes with farright groups that attempt to disrupt the event every year. Ukraine’s human rights ombudswoman Lyudmyla Denisova urged radical groups to refrain from violence.