Thessaloniki, Greece – Following a violent attack on two transgender individuals over the weekend, a large crowd of LGBTQ+ community members and allies took to the streets of Thessaloniki in northern Greece to protest. Thousands of people gathered in Aristotelous Square, the site of the attack, on Sunday evening, before marching through the city streets while chanting slogans, waving Pride flags, and carrying banners condemning fascism, homophobia, and transphobia.
Various groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals, women’s organizations, anti-fascist coalitions, and student organizers, came together in solidarity to denounce hate during the demonstration. An anonymous attendee estimated that around 3,000 to 4,000 people participated in the protest, which was mobilized in less than 24 hours.
During the demonstration, clashes between riot police and protesters erupted as the protesters marched through the city center. The police used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse the crowd. The protest was triggered by a mob attack the night before, where a group of individuals wearing black chased two trans people, hurling homophobic slurs and bottles at them. The victims sought refuge in a restaurant until the police intervened.
Local reports indicated that police apprehended 25 individuals at the scene, 21 of whom were later arrested, including 11 minors and 10 adults. Thessaloniki Mayor Stelios Angeloudis condemned the attack, emphasizing the importance of tolerance and inclusivity in a diverse society that respects diversity.
The incident occurred just a week after Greece legalized same-sex marriage and adoption, becoming the first country with a Christian Orthodox majority to do so. Thessaloniki is set to host EuroPride later in the year. Steve Taylor, communications director of the European pride organizers Association, highlighted the significance of Pride events in combatting hate and promoting acceptance.
The attack has raised concerns about the safety of LGBTQ+ individuals in Greece, prompting organizers of Thessaloniki Pride to reassess security measures for the upcoming EuroPride event. Despite the troubling incident, the event organizers emphasized the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all participants.
The assault coincided with the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival, where festival organizers denounced the violence, reaffirming their commitment to tolerance, inclusion, and visibility. Artists and activists expressed their outrage and concerns about the prevalence of hate and intolerance in Greek society, despite recent legislative progress in LGBTQ+ rights.
The incident in Thessaloniki reflects broader challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Greece, as highlighted by the anonymous source who witnessed a surge of anti-LGBTQ+ hate speech on social media platforms following the attack. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance in Greek society, despite recent legal advancements in LGBTQ+ rights.