In order to draw the attention to the persecution and serious human rights violations against LGBT* people in Chechnya (Russian Federation), the National LGBT* rights organization LGL is organizing a protest next to the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Vilnius (Lithuania). To demonstrate solidarity with homosexual persons who were terrorized by the Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, we will roll out the 30 meters long rainbow flag. We hope that this move will encourage people responsible for shaping Lithuanian foreign policy to not be indifferent regarding the human rights violations perpetrated to the East of our country borders.
Everyone willing to support the cause are welcome to join the protest on May 13, 2017 (Saturday) at 12:00 P. M. next to the Russian Embassy (Latvių str. 53). The spectacular rainbow flag will arrive together with the Rainbow Bus filled with colors, music and human rights activists whose travels through Vilnius streets will bring joy both to the residents and guests of the city. If you want to travel to the protest with the Rainbow Bus, register by e-mail diana@gay.lt until May 10.
The protest will be held from 12:00 to 12:30 P. M. next to the Embassy of the Russian Federation. The participants of the protest will be invited to join the further travel of the Rainbow Bus (as long as we will have empty seats). After the protest by the Embassy of the Russian Federation, the Rainbow Bus will travel to the Parliament of the Republic of Lithuania, where the 30 meters long rainbow flag will be rolled out again. This way, we will express our concern regarding the initiatives in the Parliament aiming to restrict the fundamental rights of LGBT* people. The Rainbow Bus tour will end at the Gediminas Hill where we will roll out the 30 meters long rainbow flag once more. We hope to show to the residents and guests of the city that Vilnius is an open and tolerant European city. Positive energy and good mood is guaranteed!
Event details can be found on Facebook.
You can find more information about all the Rainbow Days 2017 event and schedule on the official LGL website.
