Iran and Egypt on Friday will square off in a World Cup “Pride Match” in Seattle that coincides with the city’s annual celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, but both countries are “asking for the celebrations to be canceled,” according to Andrew Destin of the AP. The countries are “two of the most repressive places in the world for gays and lesbians.” Both complained to FIFA in December. The Egyptian Football Association said it “categorically rejects holding any activities related to supporting (homosexuality) during the match.” But Destin noted FIFA “appears to have brushed off their protests.” Leaders in the LGBTQ+ community are “hopeful that the match will contribute to positive change.” Washington state Sen. Jamie Pedersen, one of several openly gay members of the state legislature, said that it is “‘highly appropriate’ that the match will feature countries where LGBTQ+ people are unwelcome, and will convey ‘positive images of folks from the community.’” Seattle FIFA World Cup 26 VP/Communications Hana Tadesse said that FIFA “treats the rainbow flag as a statement of human rights and will allow fans to wave them inside the Seattle stadium.” Seattle LGBTQ+ Commission member Andrew Ashiofu said that the flag would be a “‘message’ to Iran and Egypt, that ‘we are a free city, we are a welcoming city who celebrates everyone.’” Destin noted Seattle Pride -- the nonprofit that organizes the city’s annual parade -- is “encouraging people to celebrate however they choose” (AP, 6/17).
Seattle set for culture clash with World Cup ‘Pride Match’ featuring Iran, Egypt
