This past year was a sad reminder of how hateful words can easily lead to hateful actions, and that when one group of people is targeted, all people in vulnerable situations are less safe.  The murders at Tepláreň underscored how discrimination and violence walk hand in hand.  Attempts to further restrict the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons cause further pain.  In this respect, we feel obliged to underline that when we stand up for the rights of all, societies are more free, more prosperous, and more secure.  

 The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, celebrating its 75^th birthday this year, states that each person is entitled to human rights and fundamental freedoms.  Similarly, the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action of 1993 affirms that human rights are indivisible, interdependent, and interconnected, and the principles of the Charter of the Fundamental Rights of the European Union require all EU member states to enshrine equal treatment of all, including LGBTQI+ people.   The Equal Rights Coalition of member states and NGOs promotes the rights of LGBTQI+ people worldwide.  These rights are nonnegotiable.  They are human rights.  They are indivisible.  They are the cornerstone of our free and democratic societies.   

 To the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex people of Slovakia and around the world, we see you.  We stand with you.