ADPD says Malta must keep pushing for LGBTIQ equality

ADPD-The Green Party has called for continued efforts to advance LGBTIQ equality, saying diversity makes society stronger.

"Diversity strengthens us," ADPD chairperson Sandra Gauci and international secretary and party spokesperson Mark Zerafa said.

They said a strong society was one where everyone could flourish and develop as a whole person, while warning against hatred, inequality and politics based on division.

ADPD pointed to Malta's strong ranking in the Rainbow Map published by the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA), saying this was a source of pride for the country.

The party said Malta's progress showed that society had grown and matured, with diversity no longer something to fear but something to embrace.

It said every person had a right to dignity, love, opportunities and emotional wellbeing, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. "The rights of the LGBTIQ community are human rights," they said.

However, ADPD said the progress achieved so far did not mean the struggle for equality was over. The party said laws could provide rights, but changes in culture and attitudes were gradual and took time.

It said Pride was therefore also an opportunity to stand with people who still felt they had to hide their identity because they feared rejection from parents or friends.

ADPD also highlighted LGBTIQ people in countries where expressing their identity or love freely could expose them to severe punishment.

The party said Pride was a celebration of the progress achieved through years of collective effort, but also a reminder that further battles remained.

It said people should be able to show who they were and love who they wanted without having to hide or feel ashamed. "The journey continues," they said, adding that society could not be considered free until everyone was free.