PRESS RELEASE September 4, 2006
Joining 65 Solidarity Groups at the "International Square"
Stockholm/Gothenburg - The first rainbow flags will be raised
September 21-23, 2006 at the "International Square" - the largest
section of the giant Gothenburg Book Fair - the biggest annual cultural
event in the Nordic region.
"Nordic cultural and other co-operation, solidarity with
colleagues in Eastern Europe under the title of 'Rainbows in Chains
and under Siege' -- and sharing rainbows with immigrants and refugees
are the themes of our Nordic Rainbow Stand and presentations on
stage," says Bill Schiller of the Nordic Homo Council.
The rainbow event in the Swedish west coast city of Gothenburg
will be co-hosted by Tupilak, (Nordic organization of rainbow cultural
workers), Nordic Rainbow Humanists and the Stockholm Information
Secretariat of the ILGCN (International Lesbian & Gay Cultural Network)
- in co-operation with the Latvian rainbow organization, Mozaika -- to
be represented by lawyer Evita Gosa -- and Homan, (Persian-speaking and
other rainbow immigrants).
Violent Attacks on Banned Rainbow Prides
"With the city of Riga banning the Pride Parade again this
year and even worse violent homophobic attacks on Pride events there,
the visible presence of Latvia is especially important to illustrate the
Gothenburg fair's theme this year: "Freedom of Expression," adds
Schiller. "It's also important to focus on how rainbow immigrants
and refugees are often left on the sidelines of the Nordic rainbows -
even in this Sweden's "multi-cultural year."
At the International Square, over 60 exhibitors work with
international issues and development co-operation: NGO's, publishers,
businesses and agencies with a program including Swedish and foreign
guests, performances, debates and images.
The Square also hosts a number of stands and exhibits where the
participating organizations offer information and activities; present
pedagogical tools and travelling tips; sell books and arrange meetings
and book signings with authors and other guests. The middle of the
Square features a big book stand with books from all over the world.
The International Square has been a part of the International
Book Fair in Gothenburg, Sweden, since 2000.
More information: info@tupilak.se
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