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Use the Net to raise those poles

Put your flag up

Friday, 13 June 2008

As the Pride season swings into gear, lovers of the rainbow flag are encouraging a little show and tell. Thirty years after the flag first hit the skies of New York flying the LGBT colours is seen as a statement of intent.

Last month saw the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office promise to engage with foreign governments about the rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. It issued an 'LGBT Toolkit' to its 261 Embassies, High Commissions and other diplomatic posts. The kit contained information regarding the UK government’s policy on LGBT rights and how to "provide added value to equality and non-discrimination work." The toolkits addresses issues including decriminalisation, sexual health, reproductive rights and health education.

But rather than wait for a toolkit to begin it’s work the internets’ LGBT community demanded Riga & Warsaw fly the flag over the cities Pride celebrations. Petitions were signed and the result saw rainbow flags flying above both British Embassies. The rainbow view is now challenging other ambassadors and an online petition at petitions.pm.gov.uk/rainbow-flags (note: no 'www') is campaigning for them to follow Poland and Warsaw’s lead.

With talk of an Order Of The Rainbow being awarded to British Ambassadors Richard Moon and Ric Todd for their flag waving isn’t it time to continue the swing for LGBT gay rights outside the UK?

www.ilga-europe.org

Forthcoming LGBT Prides needing your support

Czech Republic www.queerparade.cz
Zagreb Pride www.zagreb-pride.net
Budapest Pride www.budapestpride.hu