Police used tear gas to prevent people celebrating Istanbul Pride
The event has been banned by Turkish authorities for five years
By Steve Brown
Words: Steve Brown
Police reportedly used tear gas on LGBTQ people and allies celebrating Istanbul’s 17th Pride parade.
Over the weekend, several hundred people celebrated gay pride in the Turkish city – despite the event being banned by Turkish authorities for the fifth year running.
Chants such as ‘shoulder to shoulder against fascism’ and ‘we will not be quiet’ were heard among those out celebrating their sexuality.
However, the police presence was noted by DW’s Turkey correspondent Dorian Jones who said officers were trying to prevent the celebration.
Amnesty International – who urged Turkey to lift the ban on the pride march – tweeted: “Police have reportedly started using teargas & plastic bullets against hundreds who had gathered for #istanbulPride.
“Footage taken by @aforgutuan before the violence.”
Police have reportedly started using teargas & plastic bullets against hundreds who had gathered for #istanbulPride. Footage taken by @aforgutu an before the violence. #Pride #pride2019 #HerYürüyüşümüzOnurYürüyüşü pic.twitter.com/4aQJeXkAst
— amnestypress (@amnestypress) June 30, 2019