We, the Ambassadors and chargé(s) d’affaires of the Diplomatic Missions of Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, the United States, joined by the Heads of the European Commission Representation in Ireland and European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, express our continued support for the Dublin Pride festival. We are pleased to take part as a joint contingent of ‘Diplomats for Equality’ in the Virtual Dublin Pride Parade on 26th June 2021.
Sixty-nine countries still criminalise same-sex conduct between consenting adults. There continues to be unacceptable instances of discrimination and/or persecution of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and related persons (LGBT+) across the world. This includes hate-motivated violence, arbitrary arrest and the application of the death penalty simply for being LGBT+. We reaffirm our opposition to all forms of violence and discrimination, including on basis of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression and sex characteristics.
All people, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity should be able to live freely without fear of violence or discrimination, and play an active part in society. Education, raising awareness and dialogue are key tools to achieve this, and Pride organisations across the world, including Dublin Pride, play an important role in this work.
COVID-19 has enacted a heavy toll on our communities. We express support to all those affected, and to the key workers who are helping to keep us safe in Ireland and across the world. This includes members of the LGBT+ community, many of whom already face discrimination, violence, persecution and isolation. For LGBT+ persons, home may not always be a safe haven. Given stay-at-home restrictions and lockdown measures, it is critical that the LGBT+ population have access to support, services, shelters and other measures.
“Community” is the theme of this year’s festival. COVID-19 is a significant challenge and it has caused great pain. But we have also seen acts of great kindness, of communities coming together to support each other and the vulnerable, and innovative ways of connecting with each other. We are pleased that Dublin Pride 2021 will take place, albeit virtually again, allowing us to continue to support and celebrate the LGBT+ community, the work of Dublin Pride and other organisations and services. We commit to continuing our work to promote respect and non-discrimination against LGBT+ persons.
We would like to thank the organisers, and express our support for Dublin Pride 2021.