PrideTT Parade Highlights Need for Anti-Discrimination Legislation

Parade Highlights Need for Anti-Discrimination Legislation

Celebration of Diversity at One Café Alcazar

On Sunday, nearly 200 participants gathered at One Café Alcazar on Maraval Road to partake in the PrideTT parade, celebrating and advocating for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA) community’s rights and visibility.

Emphasizing the Theme: “The Right to…”

Kennedy Everett Maraj, co-founder of PRIDETT, explained that this year’s theme, “The right to…” was deliberately open-ended to highlight the myriad issues affecting the LGBTQIA community. He noted, “Our diverse community faces different issues, and this theme allows individuals to spotlight what impacts them most.”

Changing the Narrative

Maraj underscored the importance of PrideTT and the parade in reshaping societal perceptions of LGBTQIA individuals. He emphasized the need to counteract misinformation and negative stereotypes, stating, “We aim to show a positive light on our community, demonstrating that we are just like everyone else, seeking equal rights and safe spaces.”

Read also : Thousands Gather in Hull to Celebrate Pride

Advocacy for Legal Protections

Maraj highlighted ongoing discussions with legislators to amend the Equal Opportunity Act to include protections for LGBTQIA individuals. He noted that despite these efforts, progress has been slow, with no legislative changes imminent. “We lack protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, especially in the workplace,” he said.

Addressing Discrimination and Inequality

Maraj expressed concern that the current legal framework reinforces discrimination, including on grounds such as sexuality, age, and HIV status. He emphasized the need for equal rights and protections for all citizens, pointing out the contributions of LGBTQIA individuals to society. “Despite our contributions, we face open discrimination simply for being LGBTQIA,” he stated.

The Importance of the Pride Parade

Addressing the significance of the Pride parade, Maraj explained that it is not just a celebration of sexuality but a demonstration of the community’s right to live freely and without discrimination. He urged those critical of the LGBTQIA community to reflect on their biases and consider how they impact others.

Support from International Diplomats

Several diplomats attended the event, expressing support for the LGBTQIA community. British High Commissioner Harriet Cross highlighted the community’s contributions and the importance of equality, noting the UK’s journey towards inclusivity. EU Ambassador Peter Cavendish emphasized the need for legal equality and praised Trinidad and Tobago’s potential to achieve this.

Global Support for Inclusivity

Ambassadors from Argentina, the Netherlands, and other countries also voiced their support. They stressed the importance of global messages of inclusion and the value of diversity. Ambassador of the Netherlands Cor Hersbach stated, “Diversity and inclusivity are crucial, and it’s important for everyone to live and love freely.”

in Conclusion

The PrideTT parade served as a vibrant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the need for legislative change to protect the LGBTQIA community from discrimination. With strong international support and continued advocacy, there is hope for a more inclusive future in Trinidad and Tobago.

Source : https://newsday.co.tt/2024/07/28/pride-organises-calls-for-laws-to-protect-lgbtqia/