South and East Belfast Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Parker Extends best wishes to Belfast Pride

Published: 29 July, 2008

Sinn Féin Balmoral Representative and head of the party's Equality and Human Rights Department Vincent Parker has extended solidarity and best wishes to the members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and trans-gender community who are celebrating Belfast Pride 2008 this week.

Mr. Parker said:

The growth in this event over the last 18 years is a positive testimony to the political and social progress that has been made in recent years.

Of course, there is still prejudice and inequality. This intolerance and narrow mindedness must be vigorously opposed and continue to be challenged in the time ahead as we seek to ensure that all citizens, regardless of race or gender or sexual orientation or disability or religion, are treated with equality.

Belfast Pride makes an invaluable and positive contribution to the life of Belfast.

It promotes understanding and respect and seeks to ensure that all citizens have equal access to all public services and are treated as valued citizens by civic institutions.

I want to commend all of those who have helped organise the week long series of events and the citizens of Belfast for embracing this celebration of our diversity. CRÍOCH