League of LGBT Esperantists was so impressed with the status of gay rights in Iceland that it passed a resolution on the matter during the World Esperanto Conference.
“Iceland is in the avant garde of countries who are seriously working towards human rights regardless of sexual orientation and identity,” the resolution reads and then goes on to praising Reykjavík’s mayor for his contribution.
The 98th World Esperanto Conference was held in Reykjavík last month with around 1.000 participants. Members of the League of LGBT Esperantists wanted to express their appreciation to their hosts by passing the following resolution:
“Resolution of the League of LGBT Esperantists
Reykjavik, 21st July, 2013
The annual meeting of the League of LGBT Esperantists expresses its joy about the social and legal situation of LGBT individuals in Iceland, the host country of the 98th World Esperanto Conference. Iceland is in the avant garde of countries who are seriously working towards human rights regardless of sexual orientation and identity.
In 2010 the Icelandic parliament passed the law allowing marriage irrespective of the gender of the partners. Same-sex and opposite sex partners enjoy the same rights and duties, making them a real and respected part of Icelandic society. One year earlier Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir became Prime Minister of Iceland, the first openly lesbian world leader.
Our special admiration is reserved for the actions of the Mayor of Reykjavik Jón Gnarr. He has shown his unhesitating support of gay rights.
When the Moscow city council refused permission for Gay Pride for the next century, Jón Gnarr was the first politician who condemned that scandalous decision. After the Russian parliament passed a law criminalizing support of gay rights, he proposed ending Reykjavik’s Twin City status with Moscow.
He also participates in Reykjavik Gay Pride, which is not the norm for mayors around the world.
We hope that other countries and cities will follow these examples to make the world a more just and happy place for all, regardless of their sexual orientation or identity.”
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