The Orihuela City Council has unveiled “Orihuela Incluye 2025,” a comprehensive program celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride and promoting diversity. The initiative, announced by Mayor Pepe Vegara and Councillor for Social Welfare and Equality Agustina Rodríguez, underscores Orihuela’s commitment to human rights and inclusivity.
Councillor Rodríguez emphasized the program’s aim to raise visibility for the LGBTQ+ community, guarantee human rights for all without distinction, and foster a respectful and safe municipality. She highlighted the urgent need for institutional support given the rise in hate speech and associated crimes, noting that 20% of LGBTQ+ individuals have experienced aggression and 25% discrimination in employment, services, or housing in the past year.
In response, the City Council is implementing measures such as an imminent protocol for workplace harassment and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals within the municipal environment. They are also finalizing a participatory study on vulnerable groups and hate speech to develop new social and municipal intervention plans by year-end. This work is conducted with local associations and supported by institutions like the Generalitat Valenciana and Zenia Boulevard shopping center.
Mayor Vegara reaffirmed the council’s dedication to equality and diversity, stating that Orihuela must be a city that supports all groups and defends fundamental rights. He stressed the obligation of public representatives to eradicate hate speech and support those fighting for a just, free, and inclusive society.
The “Orihuela Incluye 2025” program, running from April to June, encompasses a variety of events. These include awareness workshops in schools to prevent LGTBIfobia, an LGBTQ+ sports day on June 7, and a diverse families workshop for schoolchildren on June 11. An exhibition on LGBTQ+ diversity in sports will be displayed from June 16-30. A key event will be an LGBTQ+ Pride commemorative march on June 26, featuring a manifesto reading by town crier Lidia García García and a celebratory party. Other activities include a “Color Day” parade at Zenia Boulevard on June 28, a “Chemsex phenomenon” workshop for health and social professionals on June 30, and a screening of the film “Te estoy amando locamente” also on June 30.
Lidia García García, an activist, researcher, and author, will serve as the 2025 town crier, known for her advocacy for equality and LGBTQ+ rights.
