As Plaid Pride members join the activities of Pride Cymru (formerly Cardiff Wales LGBT Mardi Gras) again this year, the movement which represents supporters and members of Plaid Cymru – The Party of Wales who identify as LGBT+ is calling on Commonwealth leaders to change their attitudes towards LGBT+ people.
Plaid Pride members will take part in the Pride Cymru Parade through the centre of Cardiff on Saturday 16 August and will be speaking to visitors to the Plaid Cymru stall during the main event on Coopers Field. They will ask visitors to sign a petition to the leadership of the Commonwealth calling on Commonwealth countries to ensure equality for LGBT+ people and, in the relevant countries, to decriminalise homosexuality.
Cerith Dafydd Rhys-Jones, spokesperson on behalf of Plaid Pride, said:
“During the Commonwealth Games, it came to the public’s attention that it is illegal to be gay in 42 of 53 countries in the Commonwealth. In the 21st century, that is a scandal and an utter tragedy. While LGBT+ people or people who are perceived to be LGBT+ continue to suffer inequality and violence, we have a duty to speak out for them.”
Lindsay Whittle AM, equalities spokesperson for Plaid Cymru, added:
“I am proud to support Pride Cymru again this year. It is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the diversity of Wales’ communities and to come together for a day of enjoyment. But, it is also an important opportunity to speak about the suffering of LGBT+ people. I add my name to those who are calling on Commonwealth leaders to ensure that LGBT+ people and others alike across the world are able to live together happily and safely.”
