A Historic First Pride March in Haute-Saône

Amidst a blend of celebration and advocacy, around 200 people gathered on Saturday, June 6, 2026, for the inaugural LGBTQIA+ Pride March in Vesoul. This groundbreaking event in the history of Haute-Saône aimed to increase visibility of diverse gender identities and sexual orientations while championing equal rights.

This initiative is part of the broader movement of LGBTQIA+ events across France, similar to the Pride March in Orléans, which also advocates for equality.

A Successful Demonstration Despite Online Hostility

While the parade navigated the streets without incident, a different story unfolded on social media. Numerous derogatory and homophobic comments emerged following online publications about the event, leading to their removal by page moderators.

Particularly Harsh Remarks

Comments such as “Scum of the earth,” “We didn’t win a war with this filth,” and “A gang of notorious pedophiles pumped with hormones” were among those taken down, particularly from posts under Vesoul’s local press coverage.

“A journalist shared what was blocked by moderators,” explained Mickaël Vanetti, president of Parlons d’amours, the organization behind the march. He expressed feelings of anger and indignation over these messages.

Referencing Alan Turing in Defense

Vanetti was particularly upset by comments targeting the LGBTQIA+ community.

“When I read we wouldn’t win a war with people like us… They should remember that without Alan Turing, many of them wouldn’t have been born, or we’d all speak German,” he remarked.

He highlighted that certain online remarks were based on degrading insinuations.

“Saying the sidewalks of Vesoul will get slippery after our passage… such remarks are dripping with innuendo,” he lamented.

Considering a Legal Route

In response to these attacks, Mickaël Vanetti is contemplating legal actions.

“I plan to consult with Vesoul’s court to explore possible actions,” he stated.

The goal is to hold the authors accountable for their words.

“It seems like a competition to come up with the worst insult. If a complaint is successful, the prosecutor will ultimately decide the outcome,” he suggested.

Focusing on Awareness Over Division

For the president of Parlons d’amours, the situation underscores the ongoing need for education and awareness in the department. He emphasized the association’s commitment to an inclusive approach.

“It demonstrates that there’s significant work ahead in Haute-Saône,” he noted, stressing that prevention remains a priority.

Individuals interested in keeping up with activist and organizational updates can refer to the LGBTQIA+ events section dedicated to efforts happening across France.

Continuing Mobilization Efforts

Despite the online backlash, the organization is committed to their cause. Plans for a 2027 Pride March in Vesoul are already underway.

Additionally, the group intends to continue its international LGBTQIA+ film and documentary festival, “Parlons d’Amours,” held every autumn in the city.

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