Milan, May 21, 2026 – The Milan City Council, in its session today, approved the granting of municipal patronage to Milan Pride 2026. This event, promoted by CIG Arcigay Milano in collaboration with the Rainbow Coordination associations, marks its 25th edition. The program will span several days, culminating on Saturday, June 27, with the traditional parade.
City’s Commitment to LGBTQIA+ Rights
“Since 2011,” commented Lamberto Bertolé, Councillor for Welfare and Health, “the municipal administration, through its patronage, stands by the citizens who participate in this important moment of reflection, advocacy, and celebration, reaffirming the City’s commitment to the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community and against all forms of discrimination. This year, we are proud to announce to all Milanese the launch of an important process to support prevention activities and the construction of an increasingly open and inclusive society, through the creation of a dedicated space for these issues. Just yesterday, the Administration published a call for proposals for the creation of the Rainbow Center, which we are confident will be a safeguard and a point of reference for the defense of everyone’s rights.”
Public Call for the Rainbow Center
A public notice is now online for the concession of municipal spaces – 911 square meters spread over two floors – within the Ex Ansaldo complex at via Tortona 56, for the establishment of the Rainbow Center. This multifunctional center will be dedicated to services and activities for welcoming, listening, guidance, and support, as well as counseling on LGBTQIA+ issues, promoting a culture of prevention, and combating all forms of discrimination related to sexual orientation.
Application Process and Evaluation Criteria
Third-sector entities wishing to apply must demonstrate proven experience in the field and submit a socially oriented project aligned with the guidelines set by the Administration by 12:00 PM on September 30, 2026. Proposals will be evaluated by a commission that can award a maximum of 100 points based on the quality of the proposing entity and its organizational structure, the project’s adherence to the objectives identified by the Administration, the methods of community involvement, and facilitated access conditions for services of general public interest. The concession will have a duration of 9 years, renewable for another nine.
Ex Ansaldo: An Ideal Location
“The Ex Ansaldo complex,” added Councillor Bertolé, “already rich in activities and spaces frequented mainly by a young public, represents the ideal location to establish the Rainbow Center, which strengthens an already consolidated city system for combating discrimination: a virtuous alliance between all actors, public and private, who are on the front lines every day dealing with these issues. We are convinced that the response of the Milanese and the social fabric of this city will be enthusiastic.”
The Rainbow Center will be located within the Ex Ansaldo complex, as part of the space redevelopment made possible by the transfer of the Teatro alla Scala laboratories to the Rubattino district, following the completion of the Magnifica Fabbrica project and the renewal of the MUDEC space concession, which expires in 2027.
The details of the public notice are available at the provided link.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
