Vibrant seating structures honoring equal rights and diversity
In the heart of Portugal, the municipality of Oeiras has taken a significant step in the fight against homophobia. The local government has introduced a series of Equality Benches that aim to be a tangible representation of the municipality's goal to be a welcoming and inclusive space for all people.
These Equality Benches, painted in vibrant rainbow colours, can be found across all parishes within the Oeiras municipality. They serve as a symbol of the municipality's stance against homophobia and a celebration of equality, inclusivity, and the support for LGBTQ+ rights in public spaces.
The Equality Benches are strategically placed in Barcarena, Porto Salvo, Algés, Linda-a-Velha, and Cruz Quebrada-Dafundo; Carnaxide and Queijas, and Oeiras, Paço de Arcos, and Caxias. The locations of these benches can be easily found on the municipality's website.
Oeiras encourages its residents to view these Equality Benches as a space of freedom, empathy, and equality. The benches symbolise the municipality's commitment to inclusivity and acceptance for the LGBTQIA+ community, which includes identities and orientations not specifically listed under the + sign.
The municipality also extends an invitation to everyone to sit on these Equality Benches and celebrate diversity. The benches are a manifestation of Oeiras' stance on a society that values and welcomes all people, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, origin, or beliefs.
The Equality Benches in Oeiras are a symbol of the municipality's commitment to fostering a society where everyone deserves a place where they can simply be who they are. By visually celebrating diversity, these benches serve as a powerful reminder that Oeiras is a space of welcome and inclusion for all.
As a continuation of their commitment to inclusivity, Oeiras has decided to extend its Equality Benches beyond the realm of anti-homophobia efforts. These benches, found in every parish, are not just a representation of the LGBTQ+ community but also a symbol of support for the home-and-garden lifestyle, promoting a welcoming and accepting attitude towards diversity in lifestyle choices.
The creation of these Equality Benches in public spaces is a testament to Oeiras' lifestyle vision, which embraces and celebrates differences in all its forms, fostering a living environment where every individual feels at home and respected.
