The Helsinki Pride festival kicks off with almost 100 different events and its own official song “#haters” by electro pop duo LCMDF (previously known as Le Corps Mince De Françoise). The piece, which was released today, takes a stand against growing hate speech on the Internet
The week-long event, a human rights and cultural event that aims to increase openness and diversity, culminates with the Helsinki Pride parade on Saturday, which is expected to draw thousands of participants.
Many different organisations and political groups have signed up to show their support. Last year the event, which has been held in the Finnish capital annually since 2006, drew approximately 8,000 people.
Following the parade, a free party open to everyone takes place in Hakasalmi park with Helsinki indie poppers Minä ja Ville Ahonen and Atlético Kumpula.
The event’s patron is Finnish Ombudsman for Minorities Eva Biaudet.