On June 22, we gathered in the center of Lviv for an important event for the community: a discussion about the journey of Ukrainian Pride — from the first march in 2013 to new forms of resistance during the full-scale war.
Nadiia Chernyhina, activist with NGO “Sfera” and co-organizer of KharkivPride, shared her experience of how the movement evolved despite threats from anti-rights groups, resistance from local authorities, and the realities of war. Nadiia also congratulated us on holding the first-ever LGBTIQ+ support event in Lviv, and we shared our own experiences in return.
We discussed:
– how Pride was formed in Ukraine
– the barriers LGBTIQ+ activism has faced (and still faces!)
– why unconventional thinking and creativity are the key to survival
– how Pride became part of the resistance during the war
– why solidarity, community, and support are above all
We thank everyone who came, became part of this conversation, and shared their experiences. It’s in such safe spaces that the power for change is born.
