In her address, Pirc Musar said that Pride is much more than an event. "It is a space of an inclusive community, a clear, courageous and necessary message that democracy is not only the right of the majority to decide, but above all the duty of society to protect the dignity of every person," she said.
She added that Pride events around the world represent a test of democratic maturity, especially where people are denied visibility, equality and equal opportunities. According to her, difference is not a threat but a value. She expressed support for efforts aimed at building a society in which no one lives in fear because of who they are or whom they love, while also calling for the protection of constitutional values, peace, freedom and democracy, as well as a culture of dialogue and a tolerant and fair society.
The parade began at AKC Metelkova mesto on Masarykova Street, continued along Slovenska Street and ended at Congress Square. The cultural and political programme there brought together speeches, artistic performances, music, drag and queer culture, along with a shared community gathering, organisers from the Pride association said.
In Zvezda Park, LGBTIQ+ and allied organisations presented themselves at stands, creating a space for meeting, networking and celebration.
This year’s festival was held under the slogan Democracy in our hands – hope is our resistance, highlighting that democracy cannot be taken for granted. Organisers called on authorities, institutions and society to protect it for all people.
They stressed that this year’s Pride was not only a celebration of community, but also a clear political message about democracy, human rights, civil society, solidarity and resistance to exclusion. At a time when the rights of LGBTIQ+ people, especially trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals, face increasing political pressure and social division, public visibility of the community remains more important than ever.
