In most parts of the world, summer is a time of jubilant Pride marches and celebrations of equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community. However, in Ukraine, the story couldn’t be more different. As the country faces a devastating war with Russian invaders for nearly 18 months now, there’s little room for Pride marches and festivities – it’s a time of survival for all citizens.
The Kyiv Pride’s Difficult Time Ukraine’s LGBTQ+ community has put their own rights on hold to focus on supporting queer citizens and LGBTQ+ soldiers during this tumultuous period. For those involved with Kyiv Pride, it’s an arduous time, but they’ve found a glimmer of hope in the support coming from the LGBTQ+ community of Liverpool, UK.
Liverpool Pride’s Act of Kindness In an inspiring act of solidarity, Liverpool’s LGBTQ+ community will host a march on behalf of Kyiv Pride, with participants from Ukraine and other European regions coming together for this powerful moment of unity. Edward Reese, an activist with Kyiv Pride, views this opportunity as a way to shine a spotlight on the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ Ukrainians and to remind the world that the war still rages on.
A Call for Political Awareness For Ukraine’s LGBTQ+ activists, Liverpool Pride serves as a platform to highlight their fight for survival, urging for a strong political presence. After Liverpool hosted Eurovision on Ukraine’s behalf the previous year, the relationship between the two communities has grown, fostering a sense of gratitude and hope for the future.
A Message of Hope Despite the ongoing war, queer Ukrainians remain hopeful, envisioning the day when they can finally hold the first Pride march in Kyiv after victory over Russia. Liverpool Pride’s chief executive, Andi Herring, emphasizes the importance of showing solidarity with Ukraine and maintaining the city’s outward-looking stance, even in turbulent times.
Liverpool Pride, set to take place on July 29th, promises to be both a spectacle and a profound statement of unity and support for LGBTQ+ Ukrainians, proving that no matter where they are in the world, the fight for equality and freedom transcends borders.
