Maastricht against fascism: Pride & Solidarity

Today we march together in Maastricht to celebrate PRIDE, diversity and the right of every person to live freely. But PRIDE is more than a celebration. It reminds us that rights are never a given. They are won through struggle and solidarity action.

The fight for LGBTQI+ rights is inseparable from the fight against racism, fascism and the far right. Division and hatred harms us all.

History teaches us that hatred rarely stops with one group. As Pastor Niemöller powerfully said:

"First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a socialist.

Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me - and there was no one left to speak for me."

The lesson is clear. When one group is targeted, we all have a responsibility. Silence helps discrimination grow. Solidarity defeats it.

FVD calls transgender laws "against human nature". Maastricht is not immune to pressures from radical right forces. Our city councillor El Fassih is a target of online hate. That is why building unity in our city is important.

Our answer must be solidarity.
The struggle for LGBTQI and gender rights, migrant justice and racial equality is one shared struggle. None of these movements stand alone. When one advances, all can advance.

Today, let us enjoy our community of freedom. And let us remember that the best defence against hatred is solidarity.

PRIDE and anti-racism belong together.
PRIDE and anti-facism belong together.

Never again means now.

[Maastricht tegen fascisme (source)]