British Ambassador speaks at Tokyo Rainbow Pride 2013
Ambassador and British Embassy Tokyo staff show their support at Tokyo’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender event.
Ambassador Tim Hitchens (right) addresses the crowd, highlighting the UK’s commitment to diversity and equality
On 28 April, Mr Tim Hitchens, British Ambassador to Japan, attended Tokyo Rainbow Pride 2013 and delivered a speech to event participants. It was an important demonstration of the UK government’s support for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community worldwide and its commitment to battling this and other forms of discrimination. This year’s event, which included a parade through Harajuku and other parts of downtown Tokyo, drew a record number of participants. In addition to sharing the message of the UK’s commitment to an important humans rights issue, it was also a chance to communicate what a welcoming destination the UK is for visitors from the LGBT community.
The Ambassador said:
The United Kingdom government is a proactive supporter of equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals. Whatever and however an individual describes him or herself, LGBT people are entitled to exactly the same fundamental human rights as everyone else. In the UK government, we are working hard to ensure a world free of discrimination; and judging by the turnout here today, I am confident that we are not alone.
The Embassy’s Diversity Committee, together with help from the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan, organised and staffed an official Embassy booth to share information and reach out to participants.
Our sincerest thanks go out to all who helped make this day a great success.