On Sunday (25 June), #LGBTQ+ #activists and allies took to the streets of #istanbul’s #Şişli district in defiance of obstacles. English Bianet reported that the #IstanbulPride Week Committee said over 60 were detained by authorities. In #Türkiye, since 2015, #Pride events have been systematically banned in the country, with events such as picnics and film screenings even being targeted with bans during #PrideMonth. The arrests follow #AmnestyInternational warning of the “brazen and deepening crackdown” #LGBTQpluspeople face in Türkiye. “Nils Muižnieks, Amnesty International’s Europe director, said: “As thousands take to the streets of Istanbul and Izmir in defiance, they risk facing tear gas and rubber bullets. “The authorities should allow #LGBTI #PrideMarches in Türkiye to go ahead safely and without interference.” On Twitter, participants of the Pride event spoke out about attending the march in the face of oppression. “The governor of Istanbul said that ‘any activity that threatens the institution of the family’ would not be allowed, and the police closed #Taksim. But LGBTI+s found a way around and did not give up on the march!” one posted. “Despite all the pressure, thousands of queers marched in Istanbul today. This victory is enough for us. I can cry of happiness,” another tweet read. A third read: “Our stories of honour are different from each other, but they are also the same. My heart and soul are in Istanbul today. We were, we are, we will be.” Read the full story via the link in bio 🔗 #queernews #turkishnews #queertok #lgbtqrights - @pinknews