‘Netta Shouldn’t Be Punished For Being Israeli’: ARC Respond To ADPD’s Criticism Over EuroPride Singer Selection
The organisers of EuroPride 2023 have reacted to ADPD’s criticism over the selection of an Israeli former Eurovision winner to sing in Malta.
“Netta has a longstanding history of performing at multiple Pride parades across the world, including countries with hostile environment for LGBTIQ+ persons due to regressive laws,” ARC said in a statement.
“We can only stand by women, and anyone else, who have the bravery to send strong messages in favour of love and against hate.”
ARC’s response comes after ADPD called for Malta to withdraw its invitation to the singer, with the green party saying “Malta should not be a space for Israeli pink washing”.
In 2019, Netta was the very first Eurovision winner in history to perform at Sofia Pride in Bulgaria. In 2022, she also participated in London Pride and New York Pride.
Her invitation was announced this week alongside a slew of Maltese and international artists and former Eurovision singers.
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Find the rest of ARC’s statement in full below:
“Equality is beyond countries and continents. And nobody should be excluded from participating in Europe’s main celebration of love, diversity and rights simply because of their nationality.
As ARC – Allied Rainbow Communities, we are disheartened to hear recent comments criticising the tireless efforts and work of our community in the setting up of Europride Valletta 2023.
Over the previous weeks and months, we have worked hand in hand with the community to curate numerous projects which are led by queer persons, for queer persons.
We are proud of the participation of our community at the forefront of Europride, including queer Palestinians, as we are with the participation of bold allies
We are proud of the inclusion of Netta during the opening of Europride Valletta 2023, due to her tireless dedication to LGBTIQ+ rights throughout her life. Netta should not be punished for the views and actions of her Government. The fact that she is Isreali, does not take away from our support for LGBTIQ+ Palestinians and their plight.
As an organisation we look forward to a meaningful EuroPride promoting equality and inclusivity in our home country which has been topping the Rainbox Index for the last consecutive 8 years.”
Do you think Netta’s invitation to EuroPride 2023 is fair?
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