LGBTI+ 'tea gathering' banned in İstanbul

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The Kadıköy District Governor's Office in İstanbul has issued a ban on a tea gathering organized by Lambdaistanbul LGBTI+ Solidarity Association.

The "Tea&Talk" events have been held by the association for English-speaking individuals in various cafes in İstanbul for years. The ban was officially communicated to the café where the event was planned to take place.

The association responded to the ban on their Instagram account, saying, "The Kadıköy District Governor's Office has forbidden us from having tea!? This time, our long-running tea&talk event has been banned.

"However, those who believe they can hinder us with these absurd prohibitions are mistaken. At Lambdaistanbul, we are adapting to the circumstances and coming together virtually to have tea and chat. You can send us a direct message to participate in this so-called dangerous event."

Since the start of the Pride Month, the authorities have banned several events across the country.

In recent years, there has been an increasing crackdown on LGBTI+ events and activities across the country. The Pride March, for instance, has been denied permission since 2015.

Government officials, including the president, have made statements opposing LGBTI+ rights and questioning the legitimacy of the community. This opposition was prominently featured in President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's campaign leading up to the May elections, where he secure his reelection. (EMK/VK)