Thessaloniki, Greece: Thousands of LGBTQ+ individuals and their supporters took to the streets of Thessaloniki in northern Greece following a violent attack on two transgender people over the weekend.
The demonstrators gathered in Aristotelous Square, the site of the attack, on Sunday evening before marching through the city streets. They chanted slogans, waved Pride flags, and held up banners condemning fascism, homophobia, and transphobia. The diverse crowd included LGBTQ+ community members, women’s groups, anti-fascist organizations, and student activists, all united in solidarity against hate.
According to an anonymous source at the protest, an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 people attended the demonstration, organized in less than 24 hours. The gathering was marked by clashes between riot police and protesters as they marched through the city center, with police using tear gas and stun grenades to disperse the crowd.
The protest was a response to an incident the previous evening, where a group of individuals reportedly verbally harassed and physically assaulted two transgender individuals, forcing them to seek refuge in a restaurant until the police arrived. Video footage shared on social media captured the chaotic scene as the mob hurled insults and objects at the victims.
In a statement condemning the attack, Thessaloniki Mayor Stelios Angeloudis emphasized the city’s commitment to tolerance, diversity, and democracy, stating that there is no place for racism or discrimination in the inclusive community of Thessaloniki.
The violence comes on the heels of Greece’s historic decision to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption, making it the first country with a Christian Orthodox majority to do so. Thessaloniki is slated to host EuroPride later in the year, underscoring the importance of events like Pride in promoting equality and inclusion.
Organizers of Thessaloniki Pride and the city’s Documentary Festival have reaffirmed their commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community, despite the recent incident. Local authorities have pledged increased vigilance and support to ensure the security of participants during upcoming Pride events.
The assault has reignited conversations about the state of LGBTQ+ rights in Greece and the challenges faced by the community. Activists and artists have expressed anger, fear, and concern over the incident, highlighting the need for continued advocacy and awareness to combat discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.