Um vikuskiftið hittust norðurlendskar Pride nevndir í Havnini. Endamálið var at tosa saman um fyriskipan og tíðarbær evni á LGBT+ og Pride økinum. Sirið Stenberg, landsstýriskvinna, bjóðaði norðurlendsku gestunum vælkomnum við hesi røðu, og ynskti teimum blíðar byr og góða eydnu við týdningarmikla arbeiðinum, sum tey øll gera.
Good evening, everyone, and happy day of love!
I'm truly glad to be here with you as part of the Nordic community—a region that stands for freedom, equality, and human rights. I hope your conference and time here will be inspiring and meaningful.
We have come far, but there is still work to do. Inclusion and democratic values don’t happen automatically—they must be protected and nurtured. History has shown us that if we don’t stay committed, these values can be lost.
No matter our progress, we all have a role in pushing back against discrimination, pushing forward and standing up for equality. As part of the Nordic ministers for Gender Equality and LGBTI+ rights, I am committed to this work, and in March, we will present our efforts to UN Women in New York.
Nordic cooperation is a key part of how we advance these rights, and I am truly grateful to see that same collaboration among movements and organizations like yours here today.
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Like many places, the Faroe Islands face challenges. It would not be honest to say otherwise. Too many LGBTI+ people have felt unwelcome or even had to leave to find acceptance elsewhere. That should never happen, and it cannot be justified. At the same time, I see the strength of those standing up for love, inclusion, and equality—both here and around the world. That is something to be proud of. Every year, despite our small population, Faroe Pride gathers a huge number of people in the streets of Tórshavn, proving that there is real support for change and a strong will to create a more inclusive society.
As Minister for Gender Equality, I cannot promise quick fixes, but I will always stand with those working for a more open and inclusive society. That is also why I am so glad to be here with you tonight, supporting your conference. Real change happens when people like you push forward, challenge norms, and demand better.
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Pride is a statement, and today, on this day of love, it reminds us of what truly matters. Everyone should have the right to express love freely. That’s what Pride is about — celebrating the freedom to be yourself. And in times when division and hate are loud, we must be even louder in protecting and cherishing these values.
As Minister for Gender Equality, my job is to listen, learn, and act. The real changemakers are activists, communities, and individuals like you. Your efforts shape societies, and we would not be where we are today without the tireless work of activists, civil rights movements, and NGOs. These commitments pave the way, and it is our duty to support and continue the progress.
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Pride is about ensuring that everyone can love freely and feel safe. Like many rural areas, the Faroes face challenges, including young people—especially women—moving abroad to study and not returning. We need their voices, ideas, and energy. A thriving society depends on everyone being on board. Diversity is essential for building a strong and sustainable future.
I truly believe that the LGBTI+ and Pride community plays a key role in making the Faroes a place where people want to stay, return, or move to. A society that values inclusion and diversity is a society people feel at home in. If we want to build a strong future, we must ensure that everyone feels welcome and has a place here.
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Rights can be won, but they can also be lost if we do not protect them. Too many have faced hate speech and hostility just for being who they are. That is why we must continue standing up for each other. Inclusion and love are not just ideals—they are necessities.
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Pride is also about standing together. It connects us across borders, reminding us that no matter where we live, we are part of something bigger. When we share experiences and knowledge, like you will do at this conference, we all move forward. Progress happens at different speeds and in different ways, but when we share and support one another, we grow stronger.
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To everyone here making Pride happen across the Nordics—your work is vital. You are creating much-needed spaces where people can be free, where joy and community thrive. That is something to be proud of. Your voices and your dedication to inclusion are shaping a better and fairer future for all.
LGBTI+ rights are human rights. Seeing our Faroese community work alongside you is truly encouraging.
We learn from each other and stand together. In times of division, this is more vital than ever. Kindness and love are what brings us together. As this inspiring colorful background: “A rainbow flag is not just a flag. It represents the essence of love, hope, and diversity.” - What a beautiful flag!
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Let’s take that spirit forward, keep learning from each other, and continue building a more inclusive and welcoming society. I hope you have a great weekend filled with meaningful conversations, new connections, and inspiration for the important work ahead. Wishing you all the best in your efforts—both here and in the future.
Thank you.