Actor and author Stephen Fry has shared a message of solidarity ahead of a protest outside the Hungarian embassy in London over the country’s Pride ban.
The ban was signed into law by prime minister Viktor Orbán in March, after it was submitted to parliament by his ruling Fidesz party. It set fines of up to 200,000 forints (£420/$550) for organisers of Budapest Pride – and anyone attending. The legislation also allows police to use facial recognition to target and fine anyone at the marches.
Twenty EU countries have called on Hungary to reverse their decision, and demonstrations against it have been organised, including one by The Peter Tatchell Foundation. Solidarity Pride will be held outside the country’s embassy in London’s posh Belgravia on 21 June – seven days before Budapest Pride is scheduled to go ahead.
‘They’re in the grip of a modern version of fascism’
Fry, who was knighted in the New Year Honours List , has released a video in which he urged people to oppose the ban.
“It’s a country that has produced wonderful and extraordinary people [who] have contributed to the sum of human happiness, some of the greatest scientists and mathematicians that the world has ever seen, but also people who believe in equality and justice,” the Wilde star said. “Unfortunately, they’re in the grip of a modern version of fascism. Our queer brothers, sisters and others are suffering as a result of it.
“It is worth trying,” he added of the protest.
‘London stands with them’
The Peter Tatchell Foundation, which is continuing to raise funds for the rally, said: “Solidarity Pride sends a clear message. They are not alone, London stands with them, shoulder to shoulder, in the struggle for LGBT+ liberation.”
Fry’s knighthood came after he appeared to revoke his support for LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall, and refused to condemn JK Rowling’s anti-trans views, drawing criticism from the transgender community.
Donations to Solidarity Pride can be made here.
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