Argentina’s 34th Pride March: Tens of Thousands Rally Against Hate and Government Rollbacks Under President Milei

Tens of thousands of people took part in Buenos Aires’ 34th Pride March on Saturday, raising their voices against hate, violence, and recent government rollbacks of LGBTQ rights under President Javier Milei. The demonstration, which began at Plaza de Mayo and moved toward Congress, was organized by over 60 human rights and LGBTQ organizations under the slogan “Against hatred and violence: more pride and unity.”​

A Powerful Response to Government Attacks

President Javier Milei’s administration, in office since December 2023, has dismantled key protections for women and LGBTQ people, including abolishing the Ministry of Women, dissolving the National Institute Against Discrimination (INADI), and cutting over a dozen anti-gender violence programs. These drastic budget changes have left many activists fearing for the safety and dignity of LGBTQ Argentines. In public speeches and international forums, Milei has condemned “radical feminism” and “gender ideology,” sparking waves of protest across the country.​

Amnesty International Argentina, represented by María Paula García, warned that these measures coincide with “an intensification of hate speech and violence, even from the highest levels of authority.” Protesters in Buenos Aires responded with banners stating “No pride without justice,” demanding accountability and the reinstitution of protections.​

Rising Hate Crimes

The political climate has contributed to a sharp rise in hate crimes. According to the National Observatory of LGBT+ Hate Crimes, attacks against LGBT+ people increased by 70% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Trans women were the most affected, and the majority of incidents occurred in Buenos Aires Province. The Observatory’s report directly links this surge to Milei’s incendiary rhetoric and policy changes, warning that the data “cannot be analysed outside the political and discursive context in which they are produced.”​

Pride as Political Action

Speakers and activists at the march emphasized both celebration and resistance. The event not only showcased Argentina’s vibrant LGBTQ community but also served as a rallying cry to defend hard-won rights against the threat of further rollback. Calls for legislative protections—including an Anti-Discrimination Law and a comprehensive Trans Law—highlighted the urgency of action. Activist Esteban Paulón described the crowd’s atmosphere: “If there is any attempt to go backwards, we are going to be mobilized.”​

Useful Links

• March of Pride in Argentina (EFE)​
• Washington Blade coverage of Buenos Aires Pride​
• Report: Attacks on LGBT community on the rise (Buenos Aires Times)​
• France 24 video coverage​

Argentina’s Pride March underscores how deeply intertwined celebration, vigilance, and activism remain in the face of policies and rhetoric threatening minority rights.