Meeting the people of Liège
A Pride is above all a demonstration, a march to meet the population. It’s about saying that sexual and gender diversity exists, and showing that public space is welcoming to all, without restriction. This visibility in the public arena aims to calm and smooth social relations between all citizens, and to help break down stereotypes about these minorities. Liège Pride has decided to make a party of it, a celebration of diversity, in a resolutely positive spirit, a little in the spirit of the Mama Roma that was in the hearts of all the people of Liège. For us, it’s all about building bridges, encouraging encounters and dialogue.
Carrying a message
One of our aims is to support the militant and democratic action of other LGBTQIA+ organizations. To determine the message of this first edition, we organized a consultation of collectives and associations as well as their members. It’s clear that the issue of harassment is a major concern: at school, colleges and universities, at work, in sport and in the family sphere. This will be the political message of the first edition of Liège Pride: STOP harassment! We want to encourage all participants in the Parade and Village to work on this theme. To do so, we’ll be proposing actions in consultation with public authorities, LGBTQIA+ collectives and associations, aimed at stimulating debate and democracy. More info on the page dedicated to our sl ogan!
Creating a unifying momentum
Scheduled over an entire weekend, with the parade as the highlight on Saturday afternoon, Liège Pride aims to bring together as many players as possible in a festive, family atmosphere. Retailers, cultural institutions, universities and colleges, associations and collectives… They’re all concerned with the right to be oneself in Liège, through events, publications or simply the refusal of any discrimination within their establishments. Through this initiative, Liège Pride and its partners aim to reaffirm the importance of a society where life is good and everyone is respected.
Boosting the attractiveness of Liège
Liège has a solid network of friendly retailers. Many downtown businesses proudly display their opening hours and rainbow colors in their windows. With its parade, concerts and events, Liège Pride intends to make this weekend a regular fixture, capable of attracting ever larger crowds. In this way, Liège Pride intends to support the Cité Ardente’s friendly merchants and contribute to the city’s tourist appeal.