Crown Princess Mary delivered a speech at the Human Rights Conference in Copenhagen this week, held in connection with Copenhagen 2021, and WorldPride and the EuroGames.
The Crown Princess, who is royal patron of Copenhagen 2021, said in her speech that, “We come together from around the world united in the belief that we are born equal in rights and opportunities, that we have the right to belong despite our differences and with a dream or vision of a world full of societies that are inclusive and embracing and where there is space for each and everyone of us to be true to ourselves and be exactly who we are.
“Copenhagen 2021 is a celebration of diversity. And what could be more diverse than us humans in all our shapes and forms, thoughts and ideas, beliefs and opinions, cultures and attitudes, behaviours and expressions.”
Crown Princess Mary also touched upon the global pandemic, saying that it has “brought about unprecedented social and economic challenges and deep sorrow for people and communities all around the world” and that it has “prevented hundreds of Prides globally from happening in the past year, but the many creative alternatives that arose has proven how resilient and strong the movement is …That the fight for equality will continue as long as prejudice and discrimination keep people and groups marginalized and vulnerable.”
The Human Rights Conference is a three-day event that will touch upon various aspects relating to the LGBTQ community, and Crown Princess Mary said that she hoped the discussions happening would encourage attendees. “Let’s make it right and make this change happen for all of us and the coming generations,” she said.
At the time her patronage of Copenhagen 2021 was announced, Crown Princess Mary said “As a Dane, I’m proud that Copenhagen is hosting WorldPride and EuroGames in the summer of 2021. We cannot accept that people around the world are harassed and discriminated against just because of their sexuality or gender identity. I look forward to celebrating diversity together and ensuring respect for LGBTI rights, in Denmark and internationally. Leading up to and during Copenhagen 2021 there will be many important and festive events, which will be a joy for me, to be a part of.”
Crown Princess Mary will continue to take part in Copenhagen 2021 events throughout the week. You can read her speech in full here.
