Turkey Bans Gay Pride Parade in Istanbul

TURKThe governor of Istanbul has banned gay, lesbian and transgender individuals from holding pride parades at their usual venue, citing security concerns.

It said Friday that marches departing from the Turkish city’s iconic Taksim neighborhood would not be allowed “for the safety of our citizens and the participants.”

The LGBT community has called for demonstrations on June 19 and June 26, bookending pride week.MORE