Ostend (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Ingrid Pelssers, chairwoman of Leuven’s UniQue, highlighted rising violence against the LGBTQ+ community, referencing attacks in Ostend and Genk. UniQue organized a gathering for support, emphasizing the need for safer spaces and solidarity against violence.
Ingrid Pelssers, chairwoman of Leuven’s rainbow house UniQue, raised concerns about violence against the LGBTQ+ community, noting that attacks in cities like Ostend and Genk could happen elsewhere. She referred to a past incident in Leuven where a gay couple was attacked in the popular Oude Markt area. In response, UniQue held a gathering with around fifty attendees to support LGBTQ+ victims, highlighting the need for safer spaces and the importance of solidarity events to raise awareness and prevent further violence.
What actions are being taken to address rising violence against LGBTQ+ individuals?
“We’re here to support all victims of violence and intimidation and to offer hope to the community,” the chairperson said. They expressed concern that the situation for LGBTQI individuals is declining, with increasing acceptance of violence against those who are different, particularly among young people. After a moment of silence, some participants shared their personal experiences with homophobic violence or aggression.
Last Saturday 2nd November, a 50-year-old man was attacked at the Regenbooghuis in Ostend because he is part of the LGBTQ+ community. He broke his nose and went to the hospital. The man was a volunteer and board member of Avaria, a group that supports LGBTQ+ people. Police arrested two 13-year-olds and a 14-year-old for the attack. In another case in Genk, a 26-year-old man was beaten by some young people after a Halloween party because they didn’t like that one of his friends was gay and wearing bright clothes. On 8th November’s night in Ostend, another man was stabbed in a similar attack.
