In Viterbo, Pride has become, in recent years, a long-awaited and important event. A moment of visibility and assertion, but also of collective joy. Because Pride is more than just a parade: it tells the story of who we are, the memory of the struggles that preceded us, the political and cultural project of a vibrant community.
For this moment to retain its transformative power, it is essential that it arises from a truly shared, transparent, and accessible process. In recent years, we have perceived a growing gap between the profound meaning of Pride and certain organizational methods that, while claiming to be inclusive, have not always fostered broad and genuine engagement with local communities.
As an association, we have repeatedly expressed our willingness to collaborate. We have proposed meetings, offered ideas and resources, in the belief that Pride is built together. Often, however, we have encountered delayed responses, predefined spaces, and unclear paths.
For these reasons, and in a spirit of collaboration, we reiterate a proposal today: the establishment of a permanent Territorial Coordination Committee for Pride in Viterbo. An open and democratic space where all those committed to LGBTQIA+ rights can meet, discuss, and jointly build a participatory, diverse, and transparent event. A Pride:
● with a shared political manifesto, drawn up well in advance;
● organized with criteria of transparency and accessibility, including economic accessibility;
● accompanied by cultural, educational and social initiatives in the area;
● truly accessible to all people;
● oriented towards the well-being, dignity and visibility of LGBTQIA+ subjects;
● supported by traceable economic management, with public budgets, declared sponsors and funds raised in a transparent manner.
We believe Viterbo deserves a Pride event worthy of its community: more open, stronger, more authentic. And we believe this journey can only arise from genuine dialogue, transcending individual acronyms, with the goal of building a collective project that lasts over time.
We know, from experience, how difficult it can be to work together horizontally, but we also know how necessary it is. Pride cannot be the result of decisions already made, but a process that opens, discusses, and builds on mutual respect.
We're not interested in fueling controversy or compiling lists of shortcomings. But we can no longer ignore the need for a change in method.
The Coordination Committee we propose is an invitation: to meet, to build trust, to share visions and resources to make Pride not just an annual event, but a shared, ongoing, and transparent responsibility.
The Board of Directors,
Arcigay Viterbo – Peter Boom APS
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