Barcelona, Mediterranean capital of Gay and Lesbian Pride in 2010

Barcelona (CNA).- Over the last ten days, Barcelona held several exhibitions of gay and lesbian culture, cinema and debate. This second edition of the event, held under the motto “Your rights, our rights, human rights”, has turned Barcelona into the Mediterranean capital of Gay and Lesbian Pride.
Thirty associations joined together to organise Pride Barcelona 2010. However, events were not only held in Barcelona, but also in other towns around the Catalan capital. The Gay and Lesbian Pride World Day began with a march that crossed the city centre, from Plaça Universitat to Maria Cristina Avenue in Plaça Espanya, brought a climax to the celebrations and served as a springboard for demanding homosexual rights in those countries where such rights are denied.

Turkey has been the special guest this year and is the only country with an important Muslim community where homosexuality is not legally punished.

Barcelona is one of the most gay-friendly cities in Europe. It has a neighbourhood with a significant concentration of gay and lesbian bars, as well as homosexually-oriented businesses, such as bookshops and hotels. In addition, at the beginning of this month, the Barcelona City Hall has approved a plan for Gays, Lesbians, Transsexuals and Bisexuals which includes 227 measures to be developed until 2015. It is the first European city to implement such a plan.