When my friend Liria, General Director of Arquivo de Identidade Angolano (AIA), an Angolan LGBTQ+ organization, told me that I was lucky to be able to attend a Pride celebration, her words hit me hard and made me reflect on what is happening around the world. In Angola, like in many other countries, Pride celebrations are not just a rare occurrence—they are a forbidden dream. This sad reality reminds us that while Pride is a right, it also carries the weight of a duty and the grace of a privilege.

The Right to Pride

In many parts of the world, the right to express one’s identity, to love openly, and to be part of a community is recognized and celebrated. Pride parades and events are colorful manifestations of these rights. For instance, according to the Human Rights Campaign, over 150 Pride events were held across the United States in 2023, drawing millions of participants in cities large and small. In Europe, Pride events are also widespread and significant. EuroPride, a pan-European international event dedicated to LGBT pride, is hosted by a different European city each year.

However, this is not a universal reality. In countries like Angola, where the legal and social environment remains hostile to the LGBTQ+ community, the right to organize and participate in Pride events is severely restricted, if not outright denied. Although Angola decriminalized same-sex relations in 2019, societal acceptance lags behind, and public LGBTQ+ events remain largely unfeasible.

The bravery of activists like Carlos Fernandes highlights the harsh realities faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Angola. Carlos was instrumental in the decriminalization of same-sex relationships in 2021, working tirelessly to challenge oppressive laws. Tragically, in February of this year, Carlos was found dead in his home, believed to have been murdered – although there has been no official answer from Angolan authorities. His death underscores the perilous conditions under which many activists operate, and the urgent need for continued global advocacy.

This disparity highlights the ongoing struggle for universal human rights. According to ILGA World’s 2020 report, there are still 69 countries where same-sex relations are criminalized, with penalties ranging from fines to life imprisonment, and in some cases, even the death penalty. It emphasizes the importance of continuing to advocate for the recognition and protection of LGBTQ+ rights globally. The right to Pride is fundamentally about the right to exist without fear, to celebrate one’s identity, and to be visible in a world that often tries to make marginalized communities invisible.

The Duty of Pride

For those of us who can freely celebrate Pride, there comes a duty to use our voices and platforms to support those who cannot. This means more than just attending parades and events; it involves active advocacy, education, and solidarity. We have a duty to amplify the voices of those in countries where being LGBTQ+ is criminalized or socially stigmatized.

Carlos Fernandes’ life and work remind us of this duty. Despite the significant risks, he fought for the basic rights and recognition of LGBTQ+ individuals in Angola. His courage and dedication serve as a powerful call to action for all of us who benefit from greater freedoms. As we enjoy the freedom to express our identities, we must remember those who are still fighting for that basic right. Organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch regularly document and campaign against human rights abuses faced by LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide, highlighting the ongoing need for global solidarity and action.

In Europe, where LGBTQ+ rights vary significantly from country to country, there is still much work to be done. According to ILGA-Europe’s 2023 Rainbow Europe Index, countries like Malta, Belgium, and Luxembourg score highly on LGBTQ+ rights, while others like Poland and Russia lag significantly behind. This index evaluates nations based on their policies and laws affecting LGBTQ+ people, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy even in regions where progress has been made.

The Privilege of Pride

Attending a Pride celebration in a country where it is safe and accepted is not just a right—it is a profound privilege. This privilege is built on the struggles and sacrifices of countless activists who have fought for recognition and equality. For example, the first Pride parade in New York City in 1970 commemorated the Stonewall Riots of 1969, a pivotal event in the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

Recognizing this privilege means appreciating the progress that has been made, while also understanding that there is much more work to be done. In Europe, the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) conducted a survey in 2020, revealing that 6% of the EU population identify as LGBTQ+. However, the same survey highlighted that 43% of LGBTQ+ people still feel discriminated against in daily life, underscoring the persistent challenges.

When we attend Pride events, we are part of a legacy of resilience and courage. Recognizing this privilege means celebrating with joy and gratitude, and also with a sense of purpose and commitment to continue the fight for equality and justice.

Conclusion

Pride isn’t a simple celebration; it is a right that everyone deserves, a duty that we must uphold, and a privilege that we should cherish. As we celebrate Pride, let us do so with an awareness of the global context. Let us honor the struggles of those like Liria de Castro and the late Carlos Fernandes, who continue to fight for their right to exist and be visible. And let us commit ourselves to the ongoing journey toward a world where Pride can be celebrated openly and joyfully by everyone, everywhere.

By understanding Pride as a right, a duty, and a privilege, we can better appreciate its significance and our role in ensuring it is accessible to all. Let us celebrate with pride, not just for ourselves, but for everyone around the world who yearns for the day when they too can walk freely and proudly in the light.