Victims of racist and homophobic violence in Athens are increasing lately as incidents become more frequent and intense. According to Greek newspaper “Ta Nea”, groups of youngsters are spreading fear in neighborhoods of downtown Athens on a daily basis. The last incident of extreme homophobic violence took place in the area of Pagrati, where a group of 15 people attacked two men sitting on a bench in Varnava square. The perpetrators hit the two victims and threw chlorine and dirty water on them, while a few minutes later, a group of another 10-15 people with shaved heads and black t-shirts hit the two men. The victims were injured and were transferred to the hospital. One of them suffered a broken leg. During the last two years, the LGBT community is trying to record such incidents and prompt human rights organizations to take action. Over 300 cases of racist violence have been observed in Greece until today, with very few of them described as homophobic and transphobic, probably because of fear. The campaign aims to record all such cases and sensitize the public about the incidents which are, as all racist incidents, primarily a violation of human rights. Recording of such incidents has become more widespread and has been organized by the National Committee of Human Rights and the United Nations Refugee Agency in Greece. Moreover, “Colour Youth” organization has launched its own campaign to urge victims to report such incidents, under the title “Tell us About it.” In the website, one can find information about victims of homophobic attacks. It will soon contain links for psychological and legal support. Colour Youth is a non-governmental organization, operating in a 100% voluntary basis by young people aged 18 to 30. It was established in Athens in 2012 and deals with LGBT issues.
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