In preparation for the upcoming parliamentary elections and the highly anticipated Paris Pride event, the French government has heightened security measures surrounding LGBTQIA gatherings. This decision was prompted by the concerning surge in discriminatory incidents targeting the LGBTQIA community, particularly in light of the far-right's potential rise to power.
Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin has issued a directive to law enforcement and local authorities, emphasizing the need to bolster security arrangements for all LGBTQIA events, including the iconic Paris Pride march. This mandate aims to safeguard the community from potential disruptions and threats amidst the heightened political tensions.
The decision to enhance security stems from the alarming increase in hate speech and violent acts directed towards the LGBTQIA community, particularly since the far-right National Rally (RN) party's significant gains in the recent European elections. The president of rights group Inter-LGBT, James Leperlier, has voiced concerns about messages circulating on social media, urging individuals to interfere with the Pride march.
LGBTQIA refers to the diverse spectrum of sexual and gender identities, encompassing lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, and other non-binary or gender-nonconforming individuals. Leperlier has attributed the rise in hate speech and violence to the far-right's growing influence, which has emboldened extremist elements within society.
The RN has not yet responded to Reuters' request for comment on these allegations. However, the party has a history of opposing legislation aimed at expanding the rights of LGBTQIA individuals, including within the European Parliament.
In response to these threats, Inter-LGBT and other advocacy groups have rallied the community to participate in the Paris Pride march in large numbers. They aim to send a powerful message of solidarity against far-right ideologies and to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to protecting LGBTQIA rights.
To ensure the safety of attendees, the organizers of the Paris march have doubled the number of volunteers responsible for security arrangements. They are working closely with law enforcement to implement comprehensive measures that will allow participants to celebrate Pride freely and without fear of discrimination or violence.
