Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States, Oksana Markarova, made a historic appearance at an LGBTQ+ event in Washington D.C. last week, speaking out in support of the LGBTQ+ community in Ukraine. The ambassador was present at Ukraine House for a photo exhibit honoring LGBTQ+ Ukrainian military members, marking the first time a Ukrainian ambassador has attended an event focused on LGBTQ+ issues.
In her remarks, Markarova spoke about the importance of ending discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community and thanked the LGBTQ+ soldiers for their service in the ongoing war against Russia. She also praised the efforts of LGBTQ+ activists in Ukraine, acknowledging that while progress has been made, there is still work to be done.
Ukraine’s record on LGBTQ+ rights has faced criticism, but the recent approval of a bill banning media-based hate speech based on sexual orientation and gender identity is seen as a step in the right direction. The ambassador’s appearance and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community serves as a hopeful sign for the future of LGBTQ+ rights in Ukraine.