Foyle Pride organisers will exclude political parties from events. Parties who support or stay silent on key LGBTQIA+ issues are affected.
This happened after a call from a Green Party leader. He wanted Pride to distance from certain politicians. This involves parties in the Northern Ireland Executive. It relates to banning puberty blockers.
Foyle Pride organizers made a statement. They said some parties are not welcome. Parties supporting the ban are excluded. Parties who stayed silent also cannot attend.
It’s a pretty firm decision. Foyle Pride started back in 1993. Their first march was in 2010.
This year’s festival is August 14th to 24th. The parade is scheduled for August 23rd. It is still happening this year.
The organizers emphasize Pride is a protest. It is about rights and dignity. They see it as a statement of resistance. They want to show where they stand. They want real action from allies.
Parties involved in the puberty blocker decision are not invited. This means no banners or ads in the program. No official messages from the mayor, either.
They won’t tolerate hollow support any longer. Pride should belong to the people. It is not for politicians who betray the community.
They want real change, real support. They need allies who actively protect LGBTQIA+ rights. The organizers are taking a strong stance.