In a move that has ignited outrage among rights activists and opposition politicians, the right-wing government of Italy’s Lazio region, centered around Rome, announced on Monday its decision to withdraw its backing from the capital’s annual LGBT parade. This decision, supported by President Francesco Rocca and Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party, comes amid an already sensitive climate regarding LGBT rights and gender equality in Italy since Prime Minister Meloni’s ascent to power approximately seven months ago.
The Lazio region’s government cited its objection to the parade, known as “Roma Pride,” due to the organizers’ public support for surrogate pregnancy—a practice deemed illegal in Italy. This aligns with Meloni’s government’s stance, which has urged mayors to halt the registration of children with same-sex parents. Furthermore, the ruling coalition has introduced a bill intended to prosecute couples who travel abroad for surrogacy, primarily targeting gay couples.
Mario Colamarino, the parade’s spokesman, expressed that Rocca’s decision was influenced by pressure from the Catholic conservative lobby Pro Life and Family. Colamarino further emphasized the parade’s commitment to defy the government’s stance by continuing to employ the regional government’s logo during the event.
The withdrawal of support from the LGBT parade has met with significant opposition from various quarters, including the center-left Democratic Party (PD) and other opposition groups. PD Mayor Roberto Gualtieri, representing Rome’s City Hall, reaffirmed their full support for Roma Pride, recognizing its significance in fighting discrimination and promoting inclusivity for the LGBT+ community.
Nicola Zingaretti, former PD leader and Rocca’s predecessor as Lazio’s president, publicly declared his participation in the march, underscoring the importance of standing up for people’s rights and opposing those who seek to deny them. The decision by Italy’s Lazio region has amplified the ongoing debate surrounding LGBT rights in the country, further highlighting the divide between conservative and progressive forces within Italian society.
By taking a stand on the controversial issue of LGBT rights, Italy’s Lazio region has set the stage for a clash of ideologies, prompting a renewed focus on the struggle for equality and acceptance in the country’s evolving social and political landscape.
Remember to join the Roma Pride event on Saturday to show solidarity with the LGBT+ community and advocate for equal rights. Together, we can challenge discrimination and promote a more inclusive society.
