Benidorm, recognized for its historical trajectory in favor of inclusion and visibility of the LGBTIQ+ community

Starting today, two plaques located on the facades of gay-friendly venues on Calle Santa Faz recognise Benidorm's historic history of promoting inclusion and visibility for the LGBTIQ+ community. The unveiling ceremony was attended by, among others, the regional secretary for Equality and Diversity, Asunción Quinzá; the councilor for Equality, Ángela Zaragozí; the director general of Diversity of the Generalitat (Catalan government), Stephane Soriano; the director general of Tourism of the regional government, Israel Martínez; the president of the hotel association Hosbec, Fede Fuster; the president of the Benidorm LGBT Tourism Association, Santos Torres; and members of the municipal council. The Equality Councillor noted that in the late 1960s, Benidorm "chose freedom" with the opening of the first venues geared toward the LGBTIQ+ community, thus becoming "the first hub of the LGBTIQ+ community outside of the provincial capitals," where "the community has always felt at home." "And it will continue to be so," she added.

For her part, the regional Secretary for Equality and Diversity emphasized that the installation of these plaques highlights "the importance" of Benidorm and "its close relationship with the community," recognizing "the historical value of these streets, which since the 1960s have housed emblematic venues that have been a benchmark for the LGBTIQ+ community and for those who have defended diversity with pride and courage."

Quinzá noted that Benidorm "is always at the forefront of diversity," as it was "the first municipality" in the Valencian Community "to join the protocol for LGBTIQ+-free spaces" last February; he also reaffirmed the Generalitat's "commitment" to "equality, respect, and diversity."

Tomorrow, Saturday, May 17, marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biophobia.