Undeterred by a police ban, the Budapest Pride march is set to defy expectations and become the largest LGBTQ+ pride event in Hungary’s history. Organizers and volunteers are working tirelessly to ensure Saturday’s parade goes ahead, despite the potential for hefty fines.
The annual celebration of diversity and inclusion has faced increasing restrictions from the Hungarian government in recent years. This year, police have declared the march “banned”, citing concerns over public order and safety. However, the Pride organizers remain steadfast in their determination to exercise their right to peaceful assembly.
“We will not be silenced or intimidated,” said Jojo Majercsik, a spokesperson for the Budapest Pride organization. “This march is a celebration of who we are, and we will not back down in the face of unjust attempts to shut us down.”
The decision to proceed with the march despite the ban has galvanized the LGBTQ+ community and its allies across Hungary. Volunteers have been working around the clock to ensure the event’s logistics are meticulously planned, from coordinating security measures to securing alternate routes in case of police intervention.
“We are expecting a massive turnout,” Majercsik continued. “This is not just about marching for our rights; it’s about standing up for the values of tolerance, equality, and human dignity that are under threat in this country.”
The stakes are high, as the organizers face the possibility of hefty fines for defying the police ban. However, they remain undaunted, determined to make a powerful statement about the resilience and strength of the LGBTQ+ community in Hungary.
“We are not going to be silenced or intimidated,” Majercsik concluded. “This march is a declaration of our existence, our pride, and our refusal to back down in the face of intolerance and discrimination. We will be there, and we will be proud.”
