Almost 400 People Released After Arrests at Istanbul Pride March
statement.Amnesty Turkey called the ban “unlawful” under international human rights agreements.Last week, Istabul districts of Beyoglu and Kadikoy prohibited Pride-related events.
The local governors of the districts said doing so was to protect the areas, according to NPR.Istanbul Pride organizers released a statement after this year’s ban was announced. “This decision is illegal and we would like to inform you that we will use all our rights and make the necessary objections.
We would like to thank our entire network of lawyers and venues that have supported us. We won’t give up, we are not afraid!” the organizers said, Balkan Insight reportsPolice had closed off streets and subway stations around the districts to stop any participants from gathering.
However, several hundred still were able to organize.This year is just the latest ban on Istanbul Pride, which was held without incident for more than ten years beginning in 2003.
