TransPédéGouines Collective Faces Ban on Independent Pride March in Liège

The TransPédéGouines collective, known for its outspoken stance on LGBTQIA+ issues, has encountered a setback in its plans to organize an independent demonstration in Liège. Positioned as a more radical and divisive alternative to last year’s official Liège Pride, the group sought to stage its own march to highlight specific demands and perspectives within the LGBTQIA+ community. However, in an Instagram post on Wednesday, May 7, TransPédéGouines reported that city authorities have denied their request for authorization, despite the application being submitted five months ago.

Authorities Cite Tram Disruptions and Budget Constraints

City officials have provided two main reasons for the refusal. The first concerns public transport: all groups wishing to demonstrate are required to propose routes that do not disrupt tram service, a stipulation that significantly limits options for high-visibility marches-a key objective for the collective. The mayor, Willy Demeyer, acknowledged the challenge, noting that many central routes are off-limits due to this requirement.

The second reason relates to the city’s strained finances. Mayor Demeyer emphasized that each police deployment incurs costs, and current priorities, such as combating drug-related issues in the city center, have reduced available police resources. As a result, the city claims it cannot guarantee the necessary security for a moving demonstration through the hypercenter.

No Final Decision Yet, Says Mayor

Despite the refusal, Mayor Demeyer clarified that no definitive decision has been made. He indicated that a stationary gathering at Esplanade Saint-Léonard, as in previous years, would be permissible, but securing a moving march through the city center remains problematic due to limited police capacity. The mayor also expressed willingness to meet with organizers to discuss alternative solutions.

Collective Remains Skeptical, Calls for Dialogue

TransPédéGouines remains unconvinced by the city’s explanations. In a written response, the group questioned the mayor’s priorities, noting that he found time to address the issue on social media and in media interviews but not to reply to their official correspondence. The collective reiterated its openness to dialogue but insisted that the right to protest is constitutionally protected. They described the argument of insufficient police resources as “dangerous for democracy,” emphasizing that the essence of Pride is to reclaim public space for political expression.

“Asking for one day a year to be visibly queer and voice our demands across the city seems little to ask, considering the discrimination we face the rest of the year,” the collective stated.

In response to the ban, TransPédéGouines has launched an open letter to Mayor Demeyer, which has already garnered support from over 40 organizations and collectives.

The situation underscores ongoing tensions between grassroots LGBTQIA+ activists and city authorities over the visibility, scope, and political nature of Pride events in Liège.