The LGBTQ+ community has been visible in Israel for decades and is the only such community in the Middle East to enjoy significant legal protections.
In previous years, as many as 250,000 Israelis and tourists participated in the parade at the end of June, which is a culmination of a month of events celebrating diversity and equality.
This year, LGBTQ+ Israelis will take to the streets on June 25, a year after the coronavirus pandemic forced the celebrations to be put on hold. Tel Aviv boasts the Middle East’s largest Pride event, as well as the largest Pride event in continental Asia. People take part in an annual gay pride parade in Tel Aviv, Israel June 25, 2021.
To learn more about some of the organizations supporting gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans and queer people in the Middle East, visit our Instagram to view a recent series highlighting their vital work. Below we highlight a few prominent Pride celebrations. Activists and human rights organizations in several countries have been fighting for equality and providing safe spaces, services and support to marginalized people through grassroots efforts, educational campaigns, social networks, and public celebrations.
Although members of the LGBTQ+ community face threats of and frequently experience violence and discrimination across the Middle East, there are a number of notable Pride celebrations that take place in the region honoring the history, resilience, accomplishments and adversities of the population.