Glasgow 2014: City to host 'Pride House' during games
- Published
A dedicated venue will be set up in Glasgow during the Commonwealth Games to welcome lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people to the city.
Pride House will be located at a Glasgow City Council-owned site in Albion Street in the Merchant City.
The Scottish government will contribute £25,000 towards the initiative.
The first Pride House was organised for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. The Russian authorities blocked moves for one at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.
The Scottish government said Pride House in Glasgow would "provide a welcoming place" for people to view the Commonwealth Games and "enjoy the events and cultural programmes" around it.
Future legacy
Sport Minister Shona Robison said: "As both minister for the Commonwealth Games and for equality, I am delighted to announce the venue for Pride House.
"Scotland is already a world leader on LGBT equality and I am delighted to announce that to further boost these credentials the Scottish government is providing almost £25,000 to support Pride House during games time.
"Through a programme of partner events and activities, Pride House will provide a warm welcome to Scotland's LGBT community and visitors from near and far during games time as well as creating a legacy for the future."
The Pride House initiative is being led by Leap Sports Scotland, an organisation which promotes equality and diversity in sports as well as encouraging and developing greater participation from the LGBT community.
Leap chairman Hugh Torrance said: "Pride House is an important addition to the Glasgow 2014 programme, and will offer a programme of inclusive sport, cultural and social events.
"2014 has already been a historic year for LGBT equality in Scotland, and the support of the Scottish government sends an important message about our country's commitment to equality in sport."
Glasgow City Council leader Gordon Matheson said: "Glasgow is famous for its warm welcome to all, and Pride House will no doubt be another example of our friendly outlook to visitors to the city.
"I look forward to what will be a fantastic addition to the greatest games ever in Glasgow this summer."