Foreign embassies in Armenia are celebrating LGBT day
On 17th of May, the Embassy of Argentina in Armenia hosted PINK Armenia’s President Nvard Margaryan and Executive Director Mamikon Hovsepyan on the occasion of International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. They took part in the raising of the rainbow flag symbolizing LGBT people on the embassy building.
The Ambassador of Argentina in Armenia Gonzalo Urriolabeitia has expressed solidarity with LGBT people, saying: “The rights of the LGBTI people are human rights, and the human rights are the rights of LGBTI people. On the occasion of May 17th, International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, the Embassy of the Argentine Republic in Armenia ratifies its commitment to human rights and diversity, reaffirming the equal rights of all people and the fight against all the forms of discrimination, racism and xenophobia. Likewise, it is in solidarity with civil society organizations, which work around the world to demand the fundamental freedoms of LGBTI people to live in a dignified and free way. Therefore, the Embassy of Argentina in Armenia lifts up the rainbow flag commemorating this day.”
The Embassy of Germany in Armenia also addressed the day by posting a rainbow flag image on their Facebook page and by sharing the statement of Ambassador Botschafter Matthias Kiesler.
“Today is the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. The federal government is committed to fight the discrimination against LGBTI people in the world. Human rights include the right to freedom of sexual orientation. The path of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people’s equality was long and challenging in Germany. The equality of rights was not only defined through legal framework but also it has enriched our society. My gratitude to all those people who promote tolerance and fight against discrimination.”
On 16th of May, the British Ambassador to Armenia Judith Farnworth hosted LGBT activists, and on 17th of May made a statement calling upon to respect the human rights of LGBT people, saying: “The strongest, safest and most prosperous societies are those in which all citizens can live freely, without fear of violence or discrimination, and where all citizens, including LGBT people, can play a full and active part in society. Every person should have a fair opportunity in life. No one should face discrimination through unfair laws, policies and practices. No one should be subjected to hate speech, violence or harassment based on discrimination. Representatives from minority groups should have equal opportunities to participate in political and public life, including in positions of leadership and influence. ”
The US Embassy also joined the cause by posting the rainbow flag picture as a cover photo on Embassy’s Facebook page.
