The decision to move the date, traditionally June 28, seeks to differentiate itself from the Gay Games, a sporting event that will take place in Valencia from June 27 to July 5. LGBTI collectives in the city have expressed their rejection of this event, linking it to the perception that the Popular Party and Vox have «hijacked» the project and to the modification of the trans law.
In addition to the date change, this year's Pride will consist solely of a demonstration, without the usual after-party. This protest measure is due to the fact that the Valencia City Council has not yet signed the collaboration agreement to assist vulnerable people. According to the organization, even if the agreement were signed now, there would no longer be enough time to organize the party.
“"The PP councilor allowed herself to say that there would be no agreement because 'it cannot be that you come to ask for money and then criticize us'."
A spokesperson for the organization has pointed out that these statements show a confusion between the councilor's work and the criticism her party receives for attacks on the LGBTIAQ+ community. The entity held a meeting with the municipal government in April, described as «tense», in which they were informed of the intention to renew the agreement, but since then no date for signing has been set.
The slogan chosen for this year's Pride is «For your rights: act!», a call to mobilization and the defense of LGBTI rights in a context of «growing reactionary pressure». The organization emphasizes that social and legislative advances are not irreversible and that collective mobilization is essential to curb attempts to backtrack.
During June, Lambda will release more details about the event, including the route of the demonstration, the start time, and the endorsements of other entities and collectives. The June 20 demonstration is presented as a key event to make visible sexual, gender, and family dissidences, and to defend a diverse and proud Valencia.
