It's not just TA residents who support Gay Pride 2011

18-member delegation of public figures from Germany visiting Israel to experience the gay life, learn more about how and why gay life is flourishing.

By YONI COHEN
pride parade 311 (photo credit: Yoni Cohen)
pride parade 311
(photo credit: Yoni Cohen)
Many Tel Aviv residents support the city's Gay Pride celebrations, set for this weekend, including the city's mayor, Ron Huldai. He recently said that "the gay community serves as a true example of tolerance and openness, and even lights the way for other groups in Israel."
"Tel Aviv-Yafo will continue to act in the spirit of these values, giving each individual in the city a welcoming home, assistance and support. I congratulate the gay community as it kicks off the events of Gay Pride Week 2011, and its day of celebration is also a celebration of the entire city," he said in a note written in honor of the pride celebrations.
As Tel Aviv becomes increasingly popular as a gay tourist destination, more and more overseas parties are showing an interest in the Mediterranean hot spot. This year, a delegation of 18 public figures from Germany is visiting the country to experience the gay life and learn more about how and why gay life is flourishing.
The seven-day "Rainbow Bridge" trip includes an action packed itinerary including a visit to the tragically famous LGBT youth club on Nahmani Street where two people were shot dead in summer 2009, a meeting with the German ambassador, a trip to see all of Jerusalem's top attractions and a meaningful visit to Yad Vashem Holocaust museum.
During the visit, the delegation which is made up of tourists, government ministers, gay organization leaders and the leader of Berlin's Jewish community will also meet with Meretz MK Nitzan Horowitz and representatives from various Israeli gay organizations.
When asked why a delegation from Germany was specifically asked to make the important visit, the group's organizer and LGBT Aguda spokesperson, Sharon Yegerman, said that there is a lot of respect between the two countries and it is important to maintain the already very good relations.