The upcoming Brussels Pride on 17 May will focus on the theme "Unite, time to protect our rights" as announced on Tuesday by Visit Brussels and RainbowHouse Brussels.
Advocating for a society where everyone’s fundamental rights are respected daily, Pride March will set off from Mont des Arts at 14:30, making its way through the city’s centre to celebrate diversity, tolerance, and acceptance, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Delegations from Hungary, Serbia, Italy, and Romania, where LGBTQ+ rights have been under attacks, will also be in attendance.
An estimated 180,000 people are expected to fill the capital’s streets to defend their rights and celebrate diversity.
In addition to the Pride Village and the Brussels Rainbow Village, a Safer Zone will be established at Mont des Arts. This quiet space will be manned by trained volunteers and professionals ready to offer listening services and psycho-social or medical support if needed.
RainbowHouse Brussels, representing LGBTQIA+ associations in the Brussels-Capital Region, warns that political landscapes in Belgium, Europe, and globally increasingly threaten LGBTQIA+ rights through bans and intimidation. They stress that Brussels Pride is a peaceful reminder for politicians of the need to uphold these rights and for governments to act in line with international human rights conventions.
Pride Week will commence with the Brussels Pride Opening on Wednesday, 7 May. Throughout the week, the public can enjoy concerts, screenings, performances, and workshops, with a total of over 60 events centred around significant themes for the LGBTQIA+ community.
