"We do have a place at Pride and within the LGBTQ+ community in Brussels, and they accept us without conflating us with Israel. They are aware that Jews face risks in Belgium. However, because of the second point, they fear that our participation could put us in danger. As a result, they would only potentially agree to our participation if we are forbidden from bringing out logo, the Magen David, or even using the word 'Jewish' on our banners."
"Hearing this at an event that is supposed to celebrate pride and the freedom to exist was extremely painful. The message we ultimately receive is that our presence is acceptable only if it is not too visible. That we are welcome as long as we know how to hide... we refuse to accept erasing our identity as the solution. We refuse the idea that Jewish people should have to hide who they are in order to participate in a public, activist, and celebratory space."
"The post said that the group had decided to attend regardless "and prouder than ever", even if they would have to "participate without overly distinctive symbols". According to Jewish News, however, those conditions have since been removed and Jewish attendees will be permitted to display symbols of their religion."
Brussels Pride reportedly told Mazal Pride, a Belgian LGBT+ Jewish group, that participation would be allowed only under conditions that limited visible Jewish identity. Mazal Pride said it received a list of requirements, including restrictions on displaying the Magen David, using the word “Jewish,” and showing Jewish logos on banners. The group described the demands as painful because pride events are meant to celebrate freedom to exist. Mazal Pride said it would attend despite the restrictions, while refusing to erase identity as a solution. Jewish News reported that the conditions were later removed, allowing Jewish attendees to display religious symbols.
Read at PinkNews | Latest lesbian, gay, bi and trans news | LGBTQ+ news
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