Taking to social media, local dancer and choreographer who led the EuroPride Valletta 2023 Flashmob Event addressed the controversy which seemed to have struck social media over kids being involved in the event. 

‘Not gonna lie – I literally didn’t even read all the comments coz it’s a waste of time but stopped at the first “let the kids be kids” comment’, wrote Luke Brincat. 

‘If they want to play with dolls instead of toy cars; let them be kids. 

If they want to become a dancer instead of a footballer; let them be kids. 

If they want to watch Batman instead of Barbie; let them be kids. 

If they want to wear pants instead of a dress; let them be kids.’

‘If they are excited and willing to be part of a PRIDE event flashmob full of color , vibrancy and acceptance ; respect , joy , entertainment & education ; LET THEM BE KIDS!’ 

‘Why does a queer person have to reveal their gender when they’re older? Did you have to advise and reassure your mother that you were straight when you got older’, he asked. 

‘Why is it the non queer people that have to create this division between genders? … when in reality that video is pure proof that PRIDE is all about acceptance regardless of gender; inclusivity – and not a “street party for the gays” as some may still believe.’

‘So before commenting “I’ve never been celebrated for being straight” it’s because you don’t need a celebration … you weren’t held back from being yourself for years and years , living in fear of what the outcome of that might be.’ 

‘I say all this in an educative and respectful manner – each to his own .. but don’t put your own insecurities and fears onto the kids; LET THEM BE KIDS’.

This came after various comments and posts suggested that kids being involved in the event was uncalled for (or worse, for some). Many, however, pointed out that the event wasn’t inherently inappropriate just because it was a celebration of the LGBTIQ+ community, with kids enjoying the event as any other.

#MaltaDaily