Statement regarding the organisation of Pride Walk

Dear community,

We have unfortunately decided to withdraw from organising the Pride Walk this year. 

We made this decision due to the recent upheaval around what flags are or aren’t welcome at the Pride Walk and the different interests, wishes and approaches from various institutions involved. To be clear: we did not wish to prohibit or ban any flags. As we said, our wording in a previous post was unfortunate. But we cannot wholeheartedly welcome or support all flags in this political climate. We think it is important to compromise, but not to the extent that we lose sight of who we are and what we stand for. 

Our decision to withdraw was made in consultation with partner Stichting Homomonument. We also feel that this discussion is taking away from the important message of the Pride Walk that has been at its core for decades, which is solidarity with all LGBTQIAP+ people living under oppression and duress worldwide. 

The Pride Walk will commence as planned on July 20th, as the founding organisation, Stichting Homomonument, is fully equipped to organise the Pride Walk. They will release a separate statement on the proceedings. 

Furthermore, we would like to announce our own international solidarity protest in the second week of September. We think it is important now more than ever to show those living under oppressive systems around the world that we stand with them, unconditionally. The details will be shared as soon as we have more information. 

In the meantime, our Queer Amsterdam Month is in full swing until August 4th. We are very proud of all the heartwarming initiatives, collaborations, events and communities that make this month what it is.

Thank you in advance,

The board of Queer Amsterdam.