By Lisette Kampus in Tallinn

TALLINN, July 30, 2006  –  Estonia has proven to be the most tolerant of three Baltic States, the Pride marches have never been banned nor has there been any acts of violence or public hate speech from politicians.

We can only hope that Estonia will show the best example to our beloved neighbours Latvia and Lithuania.  With Tallinn Pride 2006 we wish to support and show our solidarity with our Latvian and Lithuanian friends.

Organisers of the Tallinn Pride are proud to announce that the official slogan of Tallinn Pride 2006 is: “Equal Obligations With Equal Rights!”.

With Tallinn Pride 2006, the LGBT organizations and their supporters are standing up to deliver a clear message that we are citizens of this country and our obligations are no different from any other citizen’s obligations, hence our rights should not differ as well.

You can hear many protestors saying that “homosexuals threaten the family values”, we strongly disagree … we say we are strengthening them!

We are saying it is not important whether the family is same-sex or not.  The common humanistic values, tolerance, safe environment for children, mutual respect and loving atmosphere should be an example to all people regardless their orientation.

Lack of legislation means not allowing this message to be sent out also to lesbians and gays – and this is what is threatening the family values!

Hence, as a continuation to the public debate over the Partnership Law in January, the organizers of Tallinn Pride are sending out a clear socio-political message with this years Pride.

Soviet times are gone for a long time now and Estonia has proven to be a worthy member state of the European Union.  With such marvellous developments, the Estonian LGBT scene has become more and more visible in the society and it has become evident that there is a severe need for a legislation that would protect gays and lesbians and their families.

Tallinn Pride 2006 will be going on throughout the whole week, offering friends and guests many various events (exhibitions, movie screenings, karaoke championships, etc) and the grand finale – Pride Parade – will be held on August 12, through the fabulous Old Town of Tallinn.

We, of course, invite you all to Tallinn to show your solidarity and support towards the Baltic States

Click on logo for the Tallinn Pride website (in English)