about Lithuanian Gay League
The national non-governmental organization LGL, founded in 1995 as Lithuanian Gay League is an advocacy organization dedicated to fight homophobia and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Through education, support, representation of LGBT community LGL promotes inclusive social environment for gay men, lesbian women, bisexual and transgender persons.
In 1993 a constitutive meeting took place. The first issue of the monthly LGL newsletter “Amsterdam” was released. In winter 1995 first lesbian and gay center opened its doors. In spring 1995 Lithuanian Gay League was officially registered at the Ministry of Justice. Since then it is one of the longest existing NGO’s in the country.
During the years the organization implemented several projects, for instance the first survey in three Baltic countries regarding discrimination on the ground of sexual orientation, the project “Challenges to family law and policy in Europe” followed by a publication, seminars throughout the country and the photo exhibition „Living together“. The coordination of the European Council’s initiative EQUAL programme project “Open and safe at work.lt” was so far biggest and most ambitious project in organizations work, aiming towards reduction of intolerance for employees, experiencing discrimination concerning sexual orientation, integration and mainstreaming equal opportunities at work. Besides the project work LGL also has been active in lobbying, suggested amendments prohibiting discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation have been included into Criminal and Labour codes. LGL monitors legislation and submits proposals regarding empowerment of social conditions of LGBT persons.
The vision of the organization is a respectful, open and inclusive society in Lithuania, free of discriminatory homophobic attitudes.
