City of Espoo participates in Helsinki Pride to promote equality and non-discrimination
On Saturday 28 June 2025, the City of Espoo participated in the Helsinki Pride parade as part of its commitment to promoting equality, non-discrimination, and human rights. Participation in the parade is a visible act demonstrating that everyone in Espoo can feel accepted and appreciated as themselves.
This year, Espoo is once again acting as Helsinki Pride’s Working with Pride partner. The city’s personnel marched in the parade together with thousands of other participants. The parade’s atmosphere was warm, happy, and communal.
We asked the personnel members who participated in the parade why they felt that Espoo’s participation in the Pride parade was important. Above all else, participation in the parade is an act in favour of human rights: human rights belong to everyone, and Pride is not only a celebration but also a demonstration. The atmosphere in the parade was unique, tangible, and emotional. It was obvious how important this is for many.
Espoo’s values – openness, fairness, equality, non-discrimination, humanity, and tolerance – were strongly highlighted during Pride week. This year, the partnership with the Helsinki Pride community has been highlighted in the form of rainbow events around Espoo. During the autumn, the city’s personnel will also receive training.
We are proud to be involved in building a city where everyone can be themselves. Pride partnership is a concrete part of Espoo’s goal to promote equality every day, not just during specific holidays and celebrations.
Espoo belongs to everyone!
