Police arrest over 200 people during a peaceful Pride march in Istanbul
Turkish police disrupted and arrested hundreds of activists during a peaceful Pride gathering in Istanbul. On 26 June, LGBTQ+ activists attempted to celebrate Pride Month by holding a peaceful march within the city.
However, police in riot gear created blockades in Taksim Square and the surrounding Cihangir neighbourhood in an effort to prevent the gathering from taking place.
Alongside the blockades, public transportation leading into the area was also shut down. The increased police activity stemmed from local authorities in the Beyoglu district and their ban on Pride Month events during the week of 20-26 June.
In response to the ban, Istanbul LGBTI+ Pride Week Committee tweeted: “We do not give up, we are not afraid! We will continue our activities in safe places and online.” Even though the police interference posed numerous setbacks, groups of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies took to the streets with queer-inclusive flags and signs with impactful slogans.
