The racist remarks made on social media by former member of parliament and Member of the European Parliament Marios Matsakis have caused an uproar, against the Alpha Cyprus television station and the popular series “Agios Eros.”

In a post on his personal Facebook account, he lashes out against the LGBTQI community, whose members play leading roles in the series in question. He even refers to “immoral circles,” a “well-orchestrated conspiracy,” and “abnormal puppets,” and launches an unprecedented attack against LGBTQ+ individuals.

Mr. Matsakis’s statements provoked a strong reaction from the organization Accept LGBTI Cyprus, which issued a statement titled: “Love does not threaten democracy. Democracy is threatened by stigmatization and intolerance.”

Read the statement:

“As Accept LGBTI Cyprus, an organization working for equality, visibility, and the protection of LGBTQI+ individuals in Cyprus, we remind everyone that artistic freedom and respect for the dignity of every human being are fundamental values of a democratic society.

The presence of same-sex couples on television and in the arts is not a “provocation,” but an exercise of rights and a necessary step toward substantive equality.

Actors, directors, and creators who choose to tell stories of same-sex love help combat stereotypes, enhancing visibility, and reducing social stigma against the LGBTQI+ community. The denigration of their work and public expressions of aversion to such depictions do not merely constitute “disagreement,” but they perpetuate a climate of intolerance and fuel hate speech.

As a movement, we clearly distinguish between legitimate criticism of an artistic work and discourse that targets the very existence and relationships of LGBTQI+ people. Public discourse, especially when expressed by individuals in public office or positions of influence, must be conducted responsibly and with respect for human rights, without inciting hostility, discrimination, or stigmatization.

Accept expresses its unwavering support for artists, productions, and media that highlight stories of love beyond heteronormative stereotypes, and calls on them to continue their work undeterred. We clearly state that we have zero tolerance for homophobic views and practices that seek to undermine both artistic creation and human dignity.”

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