Pride is more than just a celebration or a colourful parade. It’s a global human rights movement that defends the right of sexual and/or gender minorities to live safely, openly and as equals. At its most powerful, representation saves lives, because there are still people who believe they would be better off dead than living as their true selves. That is why Pride also belongs in the student movement.

Institutions of higher education should be places where everyone can study, be part of a community and build their future as their authentic selves. But that is not the reality for everyone. Many LGBTQI+ students continue to face discrimination, harassment and exclusion both on and off campus.

At the same time, hate speech, racism and far-right movements have gained momentum in Finland, as they have in many other countries. Fascism, racism and harassment targeting LGBTQI+ people have no place in institutions of higher education or in student communities.

People sometimes criticise Pride by asking why there is no Pride for straight people. The answer is simple: being straight has never been grounds for discrimination, violence or restrictions on rights. Pride was born out of the need to protect people’s right to be themselves openly, safely and on equal terms.

The student movement’s mission is to help build a more equitable society. That is why we cannot remain silent when harassment targeting minorities increases or when organisations that promote human rights and well-being face growing restrictions on their ability to operate. Their work is needed now more than ever.

Pride is more than just a celebration for LGBTQI+ people. It is a reminder that equality, safety and dignity belong to everyone. As long as everyone cannot enjoy their human rights equally, there will be a need for Pride.