Although the 2007 demonstration has been declared legal, the last two consecutive years have been met with violent attacks leading to fears of repeated hostility. With large numbers of supporters heading from London to Riga to express solidarity with the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community, Jean Lambert has said it is vital that the Latvian authorities ensure the march goes ahead in peace.
Jean, who is a member of the European Parliament’s Intergroup on Gay and Lesbian rights and has been awarded for her work on Justice and Human Rights today gave her support and said; “Latvian LGBT communities continue to face hostility and discrimination which has been reflected in Government policy at times. The Pride march plays an important role in reinforcing the European proclaimed principal of equality and freedom from discrimination and give Latvia an opportunity to re-assert its commitment to these values.
“Human rights must be upheld and valued by the Latvian Government, as part of everyday life and in 2007, the European Year of Equal Opportunities, they must reflect the legal status of the demonstration and protect those exercising their right to a peaceful protest.”
ENDS
For more information please contact:Morwenna Holland, Media OfficerTel: 020 7407 6280 or 07813149812 Email: media@jeanlambertmep.org.uk www.jeanlambertmep.org.uk
Notes to editors: Jean Lambert: In October 2005 Jean was named MEP 2005 for Justice and Human Rights. Jean was first elected Green Party Member of the European Parliament for London in the 1999 European elections. She was re-elected in 2004. She is one of nine MEPs representing London and one of two UK Green representatives in the European Parliament.