qaravan
RU EN
Donate

News and statements

Mar 11, 2024, press release

“Our Love is not extremism”

For Immediate Release

Brighton Beach, USA - March 11th, 2024 - QARAVAN, a community-based non-profit network for the Eurasian LGBTQ+ immigrant community in the United States, is thrilled to announce the 8th Annual Brighton Beach Pride. This year's march is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 19th, at 11:00 AM at Reigelmann Boardwalk in Brighton Beach, New York.

Why Brighton Beach Pride Matters:

  • A Stand Against Homophobia and Transphobia: In Brooklyn and across the globe, the LGBTQ+ community faces relentless challenges. Brighton Beach Pride offers a sanctuary of support, visibility, and empowerment, reminding us all that together, we are stronger.
  • Educational Outreach: Through engagement and dialogue, we strive to enlighten our communities about the importance of LGBTQ+ rights, fostering a culture of understanding and acceptance.
  • A Call to Action: This event mobilizes us to fight against injustice, rallying a community of allies and advocates ready to make a difference in the lives of those who seek refuge and recognition.

Our Core Themes for Brighton Beach Pride 2024:

  • Opposing Oppressive Legislation: Our collective voice rises in powerful opposition to the draconian laws that suffocate the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and other nations. These laws, which aim to erase our presence and silence our voices, are a stark reminder of the struggles we face. Together, we stand firm in our resolve to fight against these injustices, advocating for freedom, dignity, and equality for our community everywhere. (more information below)
  • Solidarity with Ukraine: In the face of Russia's unjust aggression, Brighton Beach Pride 2024 extends its unwavering solidarity to our Ukrainian friends. Our hearts and thoughts are with those whose lives are threatened by this conflict. We stand against the forces that seek to undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and peace, and we raise our voices in support of the courageous individuals fighting for their country's future. Our commitment to standing with Ukraine is a testament to our belief in the power of unity and resistance against tyranny.
  • Championing Women's Rights: Recent regressive policies affecting reproductive healthcare rights represent a disturbing trend that we unequivocally condemn. The imposition of restrictions on women's choices is not only nonsensical but also dangerous, threatening to set a precedent that could impact other countries. At Brighton Beach Pride 2024, we rally in support of women's autonomy over their bodies and their lives. We recognize the intrinsic link between the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and the broader struggle for gender equality and reproductive justice. Together, we stand against these harmful laws, championing the right to choose and the freedom to live without fear of oppression.

Event Schedule

  • Sunday, May 12th: Noon, Picnic at Central Park, Sheep Meadow ( 1802 65th Street Transverse, New York, NY 10065 ) – A community gathering for signage making and art therapy.
  • Saturday, May 18th: 1 PM at Brighton Beach Public Library (16 Brighton 1st Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11235)—This is another opportunity for signage-making and art therapy.
  • Sunday, May 19th: The main event begins at 11 AM on ( Coney Island Boardwalk) Rally 1PM ( Brighton 6th and Brighton Beach Broadwalk ). The march will be followed by an open-to-all afterparty at the restaurant and rooftop Zula (3052 W 21st St, Brooklyn, NY 11224) starting at 4:00 pm.

Speakers:

  • Ann Northrop - Queer Nation journalist and veteran of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
  • Renat Davletgildeev - leading Russian-speaking LGBTQ+ activist and journalist for the Dozhd and Khodorkovsky Live TV channels.
  • Adam Eli - founder of the activist group Voices4 and the author of The New Queer Conscience.
  • Justin Brannan is a member of the New York City Council for Southern Brooklyn that includes Bayridge and Coney Island.
  • Marissa Solomon is a trans activist, producer, and Coney Island native,
  • Michael Mallon - Chief of Staff, Office of the Queens Borough President.
  • among others!

Contact:

Maxim Ibadov, National Coordinator, QARAVAN

Dmitrii Kirman, PR Volunteer, QARAVAN

Join us. Stand with us. March with us. Because love is not extreme—it's universal.

Pictures and videos from Brighton Beach Pride in 2023

News and information related to Oppressive Legislation

All news and statements