Vote to declare EU LGBTIQ Freedom Zone

Tomorrow, Members of the European Parliament will debate a resolution to declare the European Union an LGBTIQ Freedom Zone, initiated by Greens/EFA MEP Terry Reintke, as Co-Chair of the LGBTI Intergroup in the European Parliament. LGBTIQ persons experience discrimination on a daily basis in the European Union. The resolution will be voted on Wednesday. Just over two years ago, the Polish region of Świdnicki, declared the county the first so-called "LGBTI Free Zone" in the EU. Today's resolution sends a clear signal to fight discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and sex characteristics.

Terry Reintke MEP, Vice-President of the Greens/EFA Group and Co-President of the LGBTI Intergroup in the European Parliament, comments:
 
"We must make the European Union an LGBTIQ Freedom Zone. Across the political groups, we are sending a strong signal against hate and agitation and opening the door for EU-wide initiatives on freedom, equality and diversity. This is a proud move to show support with all those who are marginalised and attacked because of their sexual orientation. We want to make a promise to everyone who faces hatred and discrimination; that we will and we are making the European Union a place where all people can live and love freely, equally and in diversity.

"Unfortunately, freedom for all LGBTIQ people is not yet a reality in the EU. That's why we will not stop fighting to defend European values. We call on everyone to stand with those who are attacked because of their sexual orientation."

More:
Watch the plenary debate live on Wednesday, 10 March from 3pm - LGBTIQ debate is the 2nd item on the agenda), with Terry Reintke.
Final vote on the resolution Thursday (11 March) morning.