A Sea of Rainbows Confronts Hateful Ideology
Groningen's central Grote Markt became a vivid tableau of love versus prejudice this past Saturday. On one side, a small group of street evangelists from the controversial organization Frontrunners sang about Jesus. On the other, a vibrant and defiant crowd of over 200 people waved a sea of rainbow flags and umbrellas, sending a clear message: hate and pseudoscience have no place here.
The counter-protest, initiated by COC Groningen & Drenthe, was organized in response to the presence of Frontrunners, a group led by Tom de Wal. De Wal and his organization are widely condemned for promoting so-called 'conversion therapy,' falsely claiming they can 'cure' homosexuality, autism, and even cancer through prayer. These practices are recognized by medical and human rights organizations worldwide as harmful, ineffective, and a violation of human rights.
"Love is Not a Sickness"
The atmosphere at the community-led demonstration was one of solidarity and positive affirmation. Protesters held signs with powerful slogans like "Liefde is geen ziekte" (Love is not a sickness) and "Wonderen beloofd, rekening geïnd" (Miracles promised, bill collected), a sharp critique of the financial aspect of such 'healing' ministries.
A speaker for the COC emphasized the protest's core message. "We are not here to express 'against'," they announced through a megaphone. "We want to convey that everyone deserves love." Stewards from the organization ensured the main demonstration remained on their designated side of the square, maintaining a peaceful but firm presence.
A More Direct Confrontation
While the main protest focused on a message of love, a smaller, more radical group of activists decided a direct approach was necessary. They positioned themselves right next to the Frontrunners' event, challenging their songs with chants of "Bella Ciao" and shouting "Oplichters!" (Scammers!) and "Jullie zijn een sekte!" (You are a cult!).
Maddie, a 23-year-old activist, explained his motivation for joining the more direct action. "Everyone should be able to be themselves," he stated. "When you claim to cure diseases, you risk preventing people from seeking actual medical help. I find that reprehensible." He added a poignant question challenging the evangelists' entire premise: "If you don't love people for who they are, how can you possibly spread a message of love?"
The dual protests showcased a community united in its opposition to harmful ideologies, using both peaceful visibility and direct confrontation to stand up for the dignity and safety of all LGBTQ+ people.
Based on reporting by sikkom.nl
