Be the first to comment!Human rights are also rights of LGBTIQ+ people – Minister
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On Saturday, the rights of LGBTIQ+ people were celebrated at the third edition of Gozo Pride, organised by LGBTI+ Gozo.
The Pride march held in Victoria symbolises the sometimes difficult journey that this community had to make to overcome prejudices and gain respect and its rights, the organisation said.
Several activities were held in the Villa Rundle Gardens where, among others, awareness was raised while details were provided about psycho-social services and other specialised services for LGBTIQ+ people and their families.
The Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri said that the Pride March is a celebration of love, diversity, equality and human rights. He pointed out how over the last few years, enormous achievements have been made in this sector but unfortunately, there are still obstacles in this journey.
While giving a historical look at the rights and achievements that the LGBTIQ+ community has made in our country, Minister Camilleri stressed the importance of continuing the move for more equality. “Human rights are also rights of LGBTIQ+ people,” he said.
“The Pride March is a celebration, however, more than that it is a show of unity and solidarity with every person who belongs to this community, in particular those who still face discrimination or are still marginalised,” said Minister Camilleri.
The Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms Rebecca Buttigieg explained how Malta has taken great steps forward “so that today our country has the best laws in Europe that protect the civil rights of the LGBTIQ+ community. However, there is still much more work to be done to continue changing mindsets and combating misinformation.”
Rebecca Buttigieg said that this year another important step was made for this community as, in agreement with the FSWS, a psycho-social service began to be provided for individuals and their families, also through outreach services in Gozo.
At the end of the march speeches were also made by Antonella Bugeja on behalf of LGBTI+ Gozo and by Jackie Roberts on behalf of Checkpoint which provides various assistance services to LGBTIQ+ people.
Photos: DOI
