prijava
SARAJEVO, February 23 (FENA) - A special recognition, the Human Rights Award "Freedom, Equality, Fraternity" of the Republic of France has been awarded to a human rights activist and a member of the Organizing Committee of Bosnia and Herzegovina's Pride March, Lejla Huremović.
The award was presented by the Ambassador of France to BiH, Christine Toudic, who pointed out that the jury of the award for human rights of the Republic of France "Freedom, Equality, Fraternity" reviewed 107 applications and selected five winners for special recognition, among whom was the Organizing Committee of BiH Pride March.
Ambassador Toudic referred to the daily problems faced by LGBTQI persons in their daily lives and noted that thanks to Pride March, progress has been visible.
"On December 15, the European Council made a decision to grant Bosnia and Herzegovina the status of a candidate country for membership in the European Union. This is a strong signal sent to BiH whose authorities must now devote themselves to the implementation of 14 priority reforms set by the European Commission. I remind you that joining the European Union also means respecting its values. It is not insignificant that improving the protection and inclusion of vulnerable groups, including LGBTQI persons, is a key priority, as well as strengthening the protection of the basic rights of all citizens," emphasized Ambassador Toudic.
Member of the Organizational Committee of BiH Pride March Lejla Huremović pointed out that this award is a recognition for all the members of the Pride March Organizing Committee.
"There is no doubt that BiH Pride March has proven to be the most visible activist act and form of struggle because no other activity causes so much public attention. It is this visibility and continuity of our work that sends a strong message both to society and to competent institutions, that LGBTIQ people exist, live and build their families right here in BiH," Huremović pointed out.
She stated that through visibility, they managed to reduce prejudices and stereotypes towards LGBTIQ people in the last five years, increase support and involve a large number of people in a common struggle, regardless of their religion, ethnicity, race, or sexual orientation.
"This struggle is a joint one, and we can achieve significant changes only by being united," Lejla Huremović pointed out.
The fourth BiH Pride March will be held on June 24. This year's theme of the March is "Alliance and Support".
(FENA) S. R.
