Queer Easter 2001

Participants | Vladislav

My name is Vladislav and I come from Slovakia. I'm a student. Yes, I'm out in my family, my friends and in the public. I don't hide myself. I'm a activist of the only one glbt advocating NGO Initiative "Difference" - coexistence without discrimination of sexual minorities in Slovakia

In my familiy I'm 5 years out and in public just one year. I realized a lot of homophobia but no physical violence. From my family I get no support but I get support by real friends.

My country is very homophobic (catholic, conservative, promoting hypocracy). There is no legislative protection even recognition of GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender) people. The only supportive party in parliament is left and their MP's  will first time propose the law of "living partnership of gay and lesbians" in autumn 2001 as a result of lobing and open discussion.

What do you wish to change?
The ignorance  of the society and attitude of ordinary people. I fight fot the acceptation of the GLBT people that they can live in safe and really democratic environment. Tolerance without understanding and acceptation is not enough. 

How did you find out about Queer Easter?
The headquarters of "Young Democratic Left" asked me for my participation due existing co-operation with GLBT groups and progressive changes in Slovakia. 

Youth Democratic Left and Initiative "Difference" together  will soon lounch campaign for Living partnership of g/l. We wish to include GLBT issue as a important topic not only for young people. I hope we can participate on common Central and Eastern European strategy on sexual minorities rights.

Did you have any problems to take part?
Just money! And I'm very thankful for financial help offered by organisators.

I enjoyed the seminar and I was glad to meet nice people and making friendships, I am looking forward for future co-operation and I believe in importance of such international meetings.

Expectations?
It was my first time to take part so I was very happy to meet queers from all around Europe and having fun but also prepare international events, co-operate and contribute to the inevitable change towards Queer happy Europe!

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