Skopje, 26 June 2022 (MIA) – The National Network against Homophobia and Transphobia organized on Saturday the third Skopje Pride Parade under the motto “Come Out for Love! Dignity. Equality. Justice.” It is incomprehensible in the 21st century to still witness discrimination just because someone lives their life according to their own determination - we are all human beings and pay equal taxes and have equal obligations, it’s time we enjoy equal rights in this society, said participants in Saturday’s Skopje Pride at the Woman Warrior park. “We’re here for all our close and not-so-close friends and family, for all those who we know and we don’t know, who have been banished from home for being gay. Who have been dismissed from work for being trans. And who have been physically and mentally abused for not fitting into the narrow confines of what someone calls normal,” said Eva, host of Skopje Pride 2022. She stressed that strong institutional protection and swift response against all forms of violence is needed, as well as an education system that will not be teaching us to hate each other and be ashamed of ourselves. In a message to politicians, participants in the pride said everyone pays taxes, not just straight people, but also gay, bi and trans, and called for equality before the law. They also called for the Law on Civil Registry to be put on the agenda, to regulate gender designations for transgender people in their documents, as well as to consider the rights for those living in same-sex marriages. Deputy PM for European Affairs Bojan Marichikj and Minister of Labor and Social Policy Jovanka Trenchevska were among those present in support of Skopje Pride 2022. Deputy PM Marichikj stressed that his presence at the Pride Parade was an act of solidarity and full support in the fight for human rights and freedoms of each and every person. He added that Saturday’s march at the LGBTIQ+ Parade was a march against homophobia, hatred, violence and discrimination. “We’re proud of the freedom that we live in. But freedom is neither final nor sufficient, particularly if there are still people who don’t feel free. Let us build a society equal for all and learn to live with respect and tolerance, accepting diversity. To come out for love and equality is dignified and just,” Marichikj posted on Facebook. According to Labor Minister Trenchevska, everyone has the inalienable right to live their right according to the choice they’ve made. In a Facebook post, Trenchevska called for tolerance, respect and acceptance of diversity. Earlier on Saturday, President Stevo Pendarovski and Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski voiced their support via social networks. The Skopje Pride event was held on Saturday starting at the Woman Warrior park in the afternoon. This was followed by a protest march on the streets in downtown Skopje. The event ended Saturday night with a cultural/entertaining program at the ARM Stadium in the City Park.