Lisbon's LGBTI+ March Organizers Criticize City Hall's Lack of Support, Despite Promises

Lisbon's LGBTI+ March organizers have expressed deep dissatisfaction with the City Hall's support this year, accusing it of failing to meet promised conditions for the event. The controversy centers around the final gathering at Terreiro do Paço, which concluded the march attended by over 50,000 people.

The organizers highlighted several shortcomings, including a small, barely visible stage without proper sound systems or electrical connections, making it difficult for participants, especially those with reduced mobility, to deliver their final manifestos. The City Hall, however, claims it provided all requested support, including electrical connections for the organizers' own sound equipment.

Political reactions have been swift, with PCP councilors in Lisbon filing a request recalling that the councilor for Social Rights, Sofia Athayde, had assured the necessary conditions would be met. Similarly, councilors from Cidadãos Por Lisboa are preparing their own request on the matter.

Emails reveal the organizers' initial request on April 14 for a stage with accessibility features and sound equipment. The City Hall's response on May 12 suggested a 30-centimeter-high platform instead, citing the lack of wheelchair-accessible stages. The organizers agreed to the platform but emphasized the need for accessibility, to which the City Hall admitted limitations in accommodating all electric wheelchairs due to weight.

The organizers view this as a sign of disregard for the 26-year-old march, organized through the voluntary efforts of various associations and local collectives. They have questioned the City Hall's executive but await a response.