Statement: Hungary’s Anti-LGBTQIA+ Laws Banning Protests, Gatherings & Binary Gender Assertion.

I categorically condemn the constitutional amendments passed by Hungary’s ruling party, Fidesz, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, banning LGBTQIA+ rights to protest and gatherings, and the assertion that there are only two genders. This legislation, cynically framed as “child protection”, is a blatant attack on human dignity and freedom.

Gender is a spectrum, historically and culturally acknowledged across all societies. Trans and nonbinary people have always existed, and denying their identities is not just incorrect, it’s oppressive, harmful, and unfair.

However, history shows Queer people have always met, loved, protested, and celebrated in defiance of restrictions. Budapest Pride anticipated 30,000 to 40,000 attendees this year; regardless, I urge that number to double, demonstrating clearly that LGBTQIA+ communities will not be silenced.

I stand in solidarity with LGBTQIA+ people in Hungary and worldwide. We see your struggle. Together, we must resist oppression with pride, visibility, and unwavering unity.

Love, identity, and freedom cannot and will not be legislated out of existence. And when governments try, we must resist.

Andrew Keates
Artistic Director
Queer Theatre