The numbers speak for themselves. COC reports a sharp increase in violence against LGBTQI+ individuals in the Netherlands. Hatred, threats, assaults – right in the middle of a society that proudly calls itself progressive and tolerant. While rainbow flags fly over city halls and lofty words are spoken during Pride, more and more people feel unsafe – on the streets, at school, at work.

That is unacceptable. At DiEM25, we don’t look away. Because the freedom to be who you are, to love who you love, is not up for negotiation. It is a fundamental human right.

Not words, but action

For too long, the rights of the rainbow community have been used as a symbolic showpiece by politicians in The Hague – visible in June, invisible when things get uncomfortable. But true solidarity is not shown with rainbow flags, but with policies. With protection. With justice.

DiEM25 stands firmly with the LGBTQI+ community. Not only in words, but also through political action.

We demand:

• Active protection: Strengthen enforcement and prevention of hate crimes against LGBTQI+ individuals. Ensure accessible reporting procedures and proper care for victims.
• Education in inclusion: Structural attention to gender and sexual diversity in education – not as an optional topic, but as a core part of civic education.
• Safe public spaces: More safe meeting spaces for LGBTQI+ youth, and protection in public areas, on public transport, and online.
• No room for hate: Tackle hate-inciting groups and politicians who fan the flames with their rhetoric. Freedom of speech is not a license to spread hatred.

Solidarity is not just a slogan

The attack on the rainbow community is an attack on all of us. It strikes at the heart of the society we strive to be: free, equal, and united in solidarity.

That’s why DiEM25 says loud and clear:

We stand with you. We fight with you. We will not leave you behind.

Don’t let hate take root.

Join us. Speak up. Take action.

For a society where everyone can truly be themselves – without fear.

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