January 23rd national mobilization in numerous Italian cities. From January 26th garrison near the Senate.
January 8, 2016 Not one, but many squares across Italy to reinforce the goal of equality: ahead of the Senate debate on the bill on civil unions, LGBT associations (Arcigay, ArciLesbica, Agedo, Famiglie Arcobaleno, Mit) are preparing to stage a widespread mobilization in the country's main squares. Furthermore, during the heated debate at Palazzo Madama, starting January 26th, a demonstration is planned in Piazza delle Cinque Lune, near the Senate, to demonstrate the attention and concern for the ongoing debate. "We are not responding to the provocations of those who are currently attempting to organize the usual pattern of opposing squares: we are addressing the entire country," the associations' spokespersons make clear. We have designated January 23rd as a day of national mobilization: we are working locally, engaging both civil society groups and LGBT organizations, to build the necessary networks to voice the demand for rights and equality, which has gone unheard in this country for too long. We will not be talking about a law, but about a value: the equality of all, and the right to live in a secular state. We will stand with families, with all families. With the people." Through the demonstrations, the following appeal will be made to the Government and Parliament:
“Italy is one of the few European countries that provides no legal recognition for same-sex couples. Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people do not enjoy the same opportunities as other Italian citizens, even though they pay taxes like everyone else. This is unbearable discrimination, without justification.Every parent's wish is for their children to grow up in a country where everyone has the same rights and duties.We ask the Government and Parliament to face reality, to legislate as soon as possible to ensure that there is no more discrimination and to approve laws that recognize the full dignity and rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people, citizens of this country.Mutual assistance in the event of illness, the ability to decide for a partner in the event of hospitalization or emergency medical intervention, the right to inherit a partner's assets, the ability to take over contracts, pension reversibility, the sharing of family obligations and rights, and full recognition of the rights of children born to two mothers or two fathers are just some of the rights currently denied.Simple, practical issues that impact the lives of millions of people.We are sure of one thing: Italians want equality for all.”
