Visitors at a dance party for LGBTI individuals in Emmeloord were insulted and intimidated during the event on Saturday evening. This was confirmed by the police and the event’s organizers.
- Visitors at an LGBTQ dance party in Emmeloord felt intimidated.
- The event took place at De Klos on Saturday evening.
- A group of boys attempted to block attendees' access.
- Negative reactions appeared on Facebook before the event.
- The police received three reports of disturbances that night.
- The event aimed to provide a safe space for LGBTQ individuals.
According to Laura van Sloten from poppodium De Klos, the board was still quite shaken three days after the event due to the threatening situation outside. She noted that at one point, a firework was thrown at a group of visitors, exploding three meters away.
Two groups of youths, reportedly no older than eighteen, attempted to block visitors on their way to the poppodium from Meldestraat. The organizers did not hear insults but described the youths’ demeanor as intimidating.
Three reports of nuisance were made to the police. A police spokesperson confirmed that signals of disturbance and insults were received that evening, prompting officers to respond around 22:30 when the party was in full swing.
The names of several individuals involved were recorded, and officers spoke with them. The police spokesperson indicated that further reports could lead to discussions with the youths’ parents.
Van Sloten praised the Emmeloord police for their prompt response following the reports.
Prior to the dance party, many negative comments appeared under an announcement on a Facebook page. Comments included, “If this doesn’t cause a riot, I don’t know what will,” and “This can’t exist in our Nop.”
It is unclear if the unrest that evening was related to these comments.
The dance party at De Klos was the first event in years organized for LGBTI individuals in Noordoostpolder. A specially formed ‘LOVE-team,’ poppodium De Klos, and COC Zwolle aimed to create more opportunities for social interaction.
The Klos was transformed into a fairy-tale forest, featuring music and dancing. The turnout exceeded expectations, with feedback indicating that it was appreciated, and for some, it was their first outing after transitioning.
A safe environment for going out is important for this demographic, as described by one attendee: “So you can take your first steps in a safe environment.” Van Sloten noted that around forty visitors attended the event.
The organizer stated that they chose to focus on a positive message after the event and did not want to influence perceptions by mentioning the threats. Van Sloten affirmed that they would continue their initiative despite negative feedback. The decision to file an official complaint is still under discussion.
Originally reported by www.omroepflevoland.nl as “Omroep Flevoland – Nieuws – Jongeren beledigd en geïntimideerd tijdens lhbti-dansfeest: ‘Behoorlijk ontdaan'” on 2025-09-24 14:12:00.
