Jerusalem Pride Parade led by families of hostages as conflict in Gaza persists

Despite the ongoing war in Gaza, the Jerusalem Pride Parade went on with 10,000 participants, led by hostage families calling for the release of loved ones held by Hamas. The parade, themed “Born To Be Free,” also advocated for equal rights for Israel’s LGBTQ community.

One group marched in memory of Maj. Sagi Golan, who was killed in a Hamas attack, just days before his planned wedding. His fiancé, Omer Ohana, spoke at the rally, emphasizing the importance of equality and unity within the community.

The event also saw Ayala Metzger, daughter-in-law of hostage Yoram Metzger, urging Israeli officials to expedite the return of all hostages. The march featured speakers like Sheila Weinberg, the first transgender elected official in Israel, and opposition leader Yair Lapid.

The somber mood in the city, due to the prolonged conflict with Hamas, led to smaller turnout and the cancellation of parades in Tel Aviv and Haifa. However, the Beersheba parade was transformed into a rally for “pride and hope.”

Far-right counter protesters from Lehava, an anti-LGBTQ organization, gathered in Bloomfield Garden to oppose the parade. Despite the opposition, the LGBTQ community and their allies stood strong in their call for equality and freedom.

The Jerusalem Pride Parade served as a symbol of resilience and unity in the face of adversity, highlighting the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ rights and the release of hostages in the region.