Pride Persists in Ukraine Despite Homophobia

The Ukraine LGBTQ+ community is waging a war of its own. Restless to march for their rights in the wake of Russian oppression, advocates requested an underground Pride march to be held in Kyiv’s subway system. Kyiv’ City Council shot the idea down for “security reasons.” 

The city’s multi-purpose metro system acts as an air raid shelter. Due to limited space, high foot traffic, and train schedules, KyivPride organizers were asked to choose a different location.

“In order not to endanger the participants and passengers, and to avoid possible provocations, the city authorities cannot allow the Equality March to take place in the metro,” said Kyiv City Hall in a June 3 statement. 

Merely 29% of Ukrainians thought LGBTQ+ folks deserved equal rights in 2019. However, the war, which Putin claims to be waging against a nation infiltrated by “degenerate” Western values, has helped reignite support for LGBTQ+ folks in Ukraine, according to several polls.

Mykola Povoroznyk, Kyiv’s first deputy mayor, has even mentioned how events like Pride are important to promote equality and human rights. Despite rising support, the problematic location made plans go awry. Organizers defended rumors that the march would be funded by the city of Kyiv and result in a subway shutdown. 

Nevertheless, LGBTQ+ resilience was shown on June 16 as the community facilitated the Equality March outside the subway system. The location was kept a secret until shortly before the march took place. More or less, it went off without a hitch.A few hundred brave souls, surrounded by a heavy police presence, gathered to support each other on the city streets. Several soldiers joined as well.

Not only are Ukrainians fighting for their independence, but also their rights and freedom. It is a beautiful thing to see the LGBTQ+ community come together in a country uniting for both equality and victory. 

Photo courtesy of social media