Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – On Friday, May 16, 2025, Antwerp held the IDAHOT Walk led by Imran Nawaz (Mr. Gay Belgium) with a 25m rainbow flag, promoting LGBTQIA+ rights and fighting hate. Organiser Bram Bierkens and Alderman Lien Van de Kelder supported visibility and political action.
As VRT News reported, on Friday, May 16, 2025, Antwerp celebrated LGBTQIA+ rights with a 25m rainbow flag. Mr. Gay Belgium organised the march for the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Intersexphobia. They mentioned that the goal was to raise awareness and fight against hate.
Imran Nawaz, the current Mr. Gay Belgium, led the march. They walked through busy parts of Antwerp, like De Keyserlei and Meir. He mentioned that the 25m rainbow flag showed pride and unity. It was a strong message against the increasing hate towards LGBTQIA+ people around the world.
Will Antwerp’s 25m rainbow walk strengthen LGBTQIA+ rights?
The march ended at Het Steen, a historic fortress. People gathered there for speeches about the cause. Imran Nawaz addressed the audience, cautioning against hate and bigotry on the rise. He indicated that this is occurring in nations such as Russia, America, and even in certain parts of Europe. He stressed that it’s imperative to remain vigilant and to voice opposition.
He said,
“We cannot and must not remain silent when rights are under pressure.”
Nawaz encouraged resistance and empowerment.
He stated,
“Today we show: we are here, we are visible, and we will not be pushed away.”
According to Bram Bierkens, the IDAHOT Walk in Antwerp was more than just a symbolic act; it was a deliberate and impactful act of resistance and affirmation. Bram Bierkens made it clear that the walk was not “non-committal symbolism” but rather a “powerful statement” with a purpose.
Bierkens mentioned that the march stood firmly against hatred, indifference, and the tendency to ignore threats to LGBTQIA+ rights. It also stood for love, freedom, and the right to exist openly and authentically. Bierkens’ call to arms was “visible, equal, and without fear,” highlighting the need for dignity and recognition.
“The walk is a powerful statement against hate and for the right to exist as we are”
Bram Bierkens, organiser Mr. Gay Belgium
Political leaders also showed their support for the event. Lien Van de Kelder, Antwerp’s Alderman for Equal Opportunities and Diversity, demanded permanent political support. She stated that protecting the rights of LGBTQIA+ people must always remain a priority, not only after significant events. This should be part of policies, education, and public life.
Van de Kelder noted that cities like Antwerp are important in this fight. As diverse urban centres, they are places for both activism and vulnerability. She mentioned that by supporting events like the IDAHOT Walk and ensuring safe public spaces, cities can be examples of progress, inclusion, and resilience in the fight for equality.
