– Everyone in Norway should be allowed to be themselves and live free and safe lives. That is why we are now prioritizing a strong boost in support for queer organisations, says Culture and Equality Minister Anette Trettebergstuen (Ap). She meets the leaders of several queer organizations outside the London Pub and Per on the corner, where two people were killed and dozens injured during an attack on the night of 25 June. The government is now proposing to increase support for the associations in next year’s state budget by NOK 15 million, almost doubling from 2022. – The most important for working with queer people to have better living conditions and live free lives are the organizations that are on the ground where people work and live, says Trettebergstuen. Minister for Culture and Equality Anette Trettebergstuen (Ap) together with leaders of various queer organisations. Photo: The government Will get along well The Association for Gender and Sexuality Diversity (FRI) is very pleased with the increased support. – Much is run on volunteers, and we are the ones who have the opportunity to do an important piece of work. That is why it is very nice to see that the government is now betting on and strengthening the so-called LGBT pot, says leader of FRI Inge Alexander Gjestvang. The money will be used to continue the work the organizations are doing today. – To work for political influence, to bring about change in the matters that benefit our lives, for example a dignified treatment offer for trans people and the introduction of a third legal gender category. At the same time, we must continue to strengthen volunteering and the meeting places where we can be safe and have a community, says Gjestvang. Doubles for Oslo Pride The proposal also doubles the subsidy for Oslo Pride from NOK one million to NOK two million. – It is the largest Pride event in the country. They also do a fantastic job of inspiring and educating other Pride events around the country, about how they can bring people together, and celebrate and highlight political struggles, says Trettebergstuen. Linked to shooting The doubling of support comes after the shooting in central Oslo on 25 June this year, where two people were killed. Photo: Simon Skjelvik Brandseth / news After the shooting, many queer people struggle to regain security in their lives. Four people have been charged in connection with the shooting. 43-year-old Zaniar Matapour is charged with murder and attempted murder after carrying out the attack. The well-known Islamist Arfan Bhatti (45) and two other men, one in his 30s and one in his 40s, are charged with complicity in the attack. Bhatti has been in Pakistan for a long time. On Monday, he is said to have been arrested by the police there, but the Norwegian police cannot confirm this.
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The association for gender and sexuality diversity receives doubled support in the state budget – news Oslo og Viken – Local news, TV and radio
