A “festival of human rights” is being scheduled for the same day as The Festival Of Hope, a Christian festival that will feature homophobic preacher Franklin Graham.
DV reports that Anna Pála Sverrisdóttir, the chairperson of the National Queer Organization, is one of the people organising the Human Rights Festival High Hopes. It is scheduled to be held on the same day as the Christian-themed Festival of Hope.
The Festival of Hope has run been the subject of controversy ever since it was brought to light that amongst the guests will be televangelist Franklin Graham, noted in particular for his outspoken homophobia.
“Gay people have for many years fought for their self-evident human rights and fight for them still,” Anna told reporters. “The National Queer Organization would like to remind everyone of the importance of human respect and human rights.”
Among the guests at the Festival of Hope will be Bishop of Iceland Agnes M. Sigurðardóttir. Despite public protest, she has defended her choice to take part in the festival, saying that she had promised to deliver a speech long before she learned of Franklin’s involvement and, after giving the matter thought, decided to stand by her promise to take part.
The High Hopes Festival will take place tomorrow, at the sports hall at Engjavegur 7, at 17:00.
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