EVENT: A Statement for Freedom
Brussels, Belgium – As political tensions rise and important elections loom across Europe, La Monnaie in collaboration with Forbidden Colours, Rainbow House Brussels, and Visit.Brussels, will host a poignant evening dedicated to advocating LGBTQI+ human rights, freedom of expression, and the preservation of European democratic values. This event, titled “STATEMENT FOR FREEDOM: LOVE – SPEAK – CREATE,” is set to take place on May 13, 2024, during Brussels Pride Week, coinciding with the 19th anniversary of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia.
“Our research underscores a dire warning: Within the next five years, the European Parliament could turn against LGBTIQ+ rights. It is crucial that we demonstrate to Europe our unwavering commitment to ensuring that every individual lives with dignity and freedom. This is the essence of our Statement For Freedom.”
– Rémy Bonny, Forbidden Colours.
Forbidden Colours is one of Europe’s main LGBTIQ+ organizations – working specifically on the intersection between equality and democratic resilience.
Event Details:
- Date: May 13, 2024
- Venue: La Monnaie, Brussels
- Time: Doors open at 19.00
The evening will commence at 19.30 with a welcoming address by Peter de Caluwe, General Director of La Monnaie, and Hadja Lahbib, Minister for the Federal Cultural Institutions of Belgium. The discussions will explore crucial themes centered on LGBTQI+ rights, freedom of expression, and the future of democracy in Europe.
The first panel discussion, “Europe, an LGBTIQ+ Freedom Zone?” will be conducted in Dutch from 19.45 to 20.30, featuring distinguished speakers such as Deputy Prime Minister Petra De Sutter, MP Pascal Smet, MEP Sophie In ‘t Veld, Jallouad Alloul, Saskia De Coster, and Krystian Lada.
Following this, from 20.30 to 21.15, the focus will shift to French with the panel, “Is Freedom of Expression at risk?” Panelists include Minister Hadja Lahbib, Victoriæ Defraigne, Mayor Philippe Close, Antoine Pickels, and Dr Alexandra Ana, who will delve into current challenges and the state of freedom of speech within the region.
The event will conclude with remarks by Rémy Bonny of Forbidden Colours, emphasizing the collective commitment to combat intolerance and violence while promoting a dialogue that bridges gaps within communities.
Tickets and Additional Information:
The evening is for free but registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to reserve their space early to participate in this significant conversation. For tickets and further information, please visit the website of La Monnaie.
This event is a pivotal opportunity for political representatives, committed artists, and community leaders to come together in a shared commitment to uphold the dignity and rights of the LGBTIQ+ communities, and to reaffirm the vital importance of artistic and expressive freedoms in a democratic society.
