LIVE: Jerusalem’s gay pride parade to end at Israel's parliament

March ends at Knesset to challenge government policies

The parade concluded at Israel's parliament to protest budget cuts to LGBTQ+ shelters, elimination of youth programs, and inflammatory rhetoric from ministers who have called the community 'deviants' and 'more dangerous than Hamas.'

Opposition leader pledges equality legislation

Former Prime Minister Yair Lapid promised that a future government would restore funding for community organizations and pass a decree guaranteeing equal rights for all couples—'mom and dad, dad and dad, mom and mom'—within its first days.

LGBTQ+ Israelis serve while facing institutional discrimination

Speakers highlighted that community members serve as soldiers and reservists and have family among the wartime kidnapped, yet face government efforts to roll back protections and silence community representatives in schools.

Conversion therapy and street violence remain urgent threats

Former MK Michal Rozin emphasized the need to reintroduce legislation banning conversion therapy and criticized authorities for 'winking at' violence rather than enforcing clear boundaries to protect community members.

Event memorializes Shira Banki

The parade honored the memory of Shira Banki, murdered at the 2015 Jerusalem Pride Parade, with speakers affirming that her legacy compels the community to march not from fear but from strength and determination to remain visible.

International support from Dutch representative

Dutch singer Maria Tschorman addressed the crowd, marking 25 years since the Netherlands legalized same-sex marriage and affirming that 'love is love' and equal rights require continuous protection.

Fallen community members honored

The ceremony included recognition of Segi Golan, a community member who died, with the Jerusalem Deputy Mayor presenting his family with a city flag in his memory.

Open House serves as 'beating heart' of the community

Speakers credited the Jerusalem Open House with providing a sanctuary where diverse youth can feel safe, noting the strategic wisdom but sadness of its discreet central location, which allows access without public exposure.

Municipal leaders acknowledge inclusion challenges

Jerusalem's Deputy Mayor received recognition from the Open House and acknowledged the city's duty to ensure LGBTQ+ residents feel genuine belonging and security, not merely tolerance, in the capital.