The Quezon City local government invited on Tuesday, June 18, all the members and supporters of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA+) community to join the third Pride Festival celebration which will be held on Saturday, June 22.
The event, themed “LoveLaban2Everyone,” focuses on fighting for everyone's equal rights to live and love, regardless of their Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC). It will be held at the Quezon City Memorial Circle (QCMC) in line with the government's goal to make Quezon City the city of inclusivity, diversity, and equality.
The event will start at 10 a.m. on Saturday until 12 midnight on June 23.
According to the city’s public information office, the Pride Festival will feature various activities such as the Pride Expo in QC and Food and Art Market along Matalino Street, the Pride March, and the Pride Night.
The city government said that it will set up booths for its programs and services, including QCID registration, HIV testing, Right to Care card registration, and the Kilo/s Kyusi Shop.
The city government will also conduct special graduation rites for the members of LGBTQIA+ students who were previously barred from marching due to dress code restrictions.
It will be held at QCX Garden on Saturday, at 10 a.m.
The local government said that each activity was designed to celebrate the community’s diversity and vibrancy.
“Our beloved city stands loud and proud alongside the LGBTQIA+ community, proclaiming our commitment to creating a supportive environment where everyone can live freely and authentically. Quezon City proudly celebrates diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected,” Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said in the press conference held at the QC Hall on Tuesday.
The event will emphasize the pressing need for a national law in safeguarding individuals of the diverse SOGIESC.
Additionally, the advocacy for equality and the enactment of the #SOGIEEqualityBill will be highlighted throughout the event, showcasing the increasing strength and resolve of the LGBTQIA+ community.
“How we fight is we dream. We are all dreamers. Each dream is a fight against marginalization and discrimination. It is not passive, they are battles we wage in our hearts fiercely and with love. Love Laban 2 Everyone is a testament to the indomitable spirit of a community that dares to dream,” QC Pride Festival’s program lead and show director Rod Singh said.