Rome Pride bars Jewish LGBTQ groups over Gaza language

Organizers of the Rome Pride parade have barred two Jewish LGBTQ groups from participating with an official float, citing the groups' refusal to adopt specific language condemning Israel's actions in Gaza. The decision, announced following a meeting with representatives of Keshet Italia and Keshet Europe, has ignited a debate over political litmus tests and inclusion within the LGBTQ movement.

The parade is scheduled for June 20. Organizers stated that while the event remains open to all individuals who share its values, groups wishing to have a float must express a clear and unequivocal stance condemning what they described as the genocide perpetrated by the Israeli government. In a statement, organizers said they distinguish between the Israeli government and Jewish people, and do not hold the broader Jewish community responsible. However, they attributed responsibility to Keshet Italia for having failed, and continuing to fail, to distance itself from the ongoing genocide in Gaza.

Keshet Italia, which identifies as the only Italian Jewish LGBTQ association, condemned the exclusion. The group stated that Pride has become an ideological tribunal that expels minorities and has...