Officials say that several groups of Thessaloniki citizens fired eggs and shouted slogans expressing their opposition to the organization of the gay pride festival which was held in their city on Saturday. The parade was held in the presence of strong police forces so as to restrict the protesters. No injuries were reported.
In recent days, Anthimos, the senior Greek Orthodox Metropolitan of Thessaloniki, had publicly criticized the planned gay pride parade. Anthimos, who only uses one name, is known for his outspoken speeches on social and political issues.
Our opinion here at hellasfrappe about this parade, and other similar events, is that they are not necessary because when you are comfortable with who you are and when you can stand proud no matter the challenge then you do not need to march around the city dressed up in feathers to prove your point or your uniqueness. All people are unique. You do not need to broadcast it for all to see. This shows a weakness in character, and a willingness for acceptance. We understand that there are many people who are prejudice to the gay society, but staging events such as this will only justify their reasons for feeling this way. And this is because we never see heterosexuals holding similar parades now do we?
Friends, our sexual preferences are a personal matter and what we do in our bedrooms does not concern Jenny, Jen, and every Tom, Dick and Harry.
I think our gay society needs to focus on building more self-confidence about who they are rather than take part in what clearly is a tacky parade. And for God's sakes... when you decide to only cover up your crotch area with feathers... be prepared to be criticized by a grandpa, or grandma who believe that this is not proper. This is not a beach on Mykonos... And you cannot impose your beliefs on them, as they cannot impose their beliefs on you. There must be some level of mutual respect.
Editor's Note - This is to our gay friends: You should feel comfortable with who you are without having the need to take part in such events and this can only come from the inside. You do not need to take part in a festival that is clearly staged at exploiting you financially about your sexual preferences. (People who sell gay magazines, subscriptions to gay clubs, etc.) Believe in yourselves, stand proud of who you are and do not provoke the disliking of others. All our fingers are not the same size... society works in the same way. And you will always come across someone who will not accept you because of your sexual preference. But if you are comfortable with you... because you have cultivated this from the inside, then you will not feel bothered in what others say. And this is what will make you stand out. Not marching around a city in feathers and body paint. This is the only way society will embrace you. Remember that.