This year, the theme of Brussels Pride – In the Heart of Europe is ‘Unite, time to protect our rights’, a call for unity to defend the rights, freedom, health, identity and diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. These fundamental values are increasingly threatened by bans and pressure at Belgian, European and global levels. Brussels Pride is keen to reiterate the importance of defending these rights peacefully and of pushing governments to act in accordance with international human rights conventions. It is essential to support everyone, regardless of their origin, gender, religion, culture, skin colour or disability. The LGBTQIA+ community is still too often the victim of violence and discrimination, whether physical, verbal or online. Let's unite, beyond differences, generations and borders, to protect each other.
In 2025, Brussels Pride - In the Capital of Europe will take place on 17 May, a highly symbolic date as it coincides with the IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia). This year's event will be a significant watershed moment, as it will be the first time that Brussels Pride has been organised since it was added to the Brussels-Capital Region's Intangible Cultural Heritage List (see below).
In October 2024, the Brussels-Capital Region added Brussels Pride to its intangible cultural heritage list (along with the Ommegang, chips and comic strips). As a result, Brussels Pride became only the second Pride in the world to benefit from such institutional recognition. In terms of long-term goals, a transnational application, led by Amsterdam, will be submitted to UNESCO in a few years' time, with a view to gaining official recognition for Pride throughout the world, thereby strengthening the guarantee of the rights of LGBTQIA+ people on a global scale, at a time when there have sadly been too many setbacks.
Parties, bars... but also exhibitions, movies and other events: discover LGBTQI+ Brussels