Slovakia, Bratislava - Rainbow PRIDE Bratislava 2010 (Dúhový PRIDE Bratislava 2010) will take place in Slovak capital Bratislava on May 22nd. It will be first Slovak march for human rights of non-heterosexual people, their social and political equalization and first celebration of gay and lesbian pride in Slovakia.

Rainbow PRIDE Bratislava 2010 has been organized by NGO Queer Leaders Forum, informal group Queers and platform of other young Slovak activists. Organizers say PRIDE means celebration not only for LGBT people and their sexual orientation and gender identity – but for every democratic and open society. PRIDE is the opposite of the word "shame" which lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people have experienced - and in many countries still experience - just because of their "non-majority" sexual orientation and gender identity.

Many foreign Embassies and Consulates in Slovakia express support the march in Bratislava. The Embassies of Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Holland, Ireland, Canada, Luxembourg, Norway, Sweden, Slovenia, Germany, UK, USA, Spain and EC representation issued a Joint Statement expressing support for Bratislava’s Rainbow PRIDE.

Rainbow PRIDE Bratislava 2010 will also have a varied program of accompanying events. Several night clubs, restaurants and cafes hang out rainbow flags at their entrances and display "LGBT Friendly Site" stickers as a sign of their solidarity and support for the non-heterosexual community. Number of places carry the official 2010 Bratislava Rainbow PRIDE leaflets containing the schedule of events and all other important information.

(SK Today, compiled from press releases)