Berlin CSD 2023: Fixed message for democracy and diversity

Berlin CSD 2023: Fixed message for democracy and diversity

The Christopher Street Day in Berlin not only presented an important celebration for the LGBTQ+community, but also pointed out current social challenges and political demands. Under the motto "Only strong together - for democracy and diversity", hundreds of thousands of people gathered on Saturday to demonstrate for equality and against discrimination.

demonstration for the Basic Law

The organizers of the CSD have urged politics to anchor the protection of queer people in the Basic Law. In the opening speech, Sophie Koch from the State Working Group Queeres Network Saxony called for a quick change to Article 3 of the Basic Law to better protect queer identities and ways of life. Political support came from the Federal Minister of Family Affairs Lisa Paus. In the speeches it became clear that the queer community wants to fight not only for its own rights, but also against the threat of democracies worldwide.

a peaceful festival despite rain

The main event of the CSD, which, according to the police, was visited by at least 250,000 people, remained largely peaceful. Despite a violent rain shower that many put to the test during Herbert Grönemeyer's appearance. In his speech, the singer addressed the threats that exist through extremist forces for democracies worldwide and called for people to fight for an inclusive society every day. The final rally was described as a big, peaceful party that attracted numerous people.

conflicts in Neukölln

Despite the harmonious process at the CSD, there were significant disputes in Berlin-Neukölln. There were violent incidents with a smaller but charged rally, which took place under the banner “Internationalist Queer Pride”. Here around 5,600 participants demanded solidarity with Palestine, which led to riots in highlights. Some demonstrators threw glass bottles onto the police and chanted criminal speakers, which led to 31 temporary arrests and resulted in 37 investigative proceedings.

challenge by right -wing groups

At the beginning of the CSD event, a group of around 30 right activists who tried to join the elevator also faced the elevator. These were stopped by the police because it could not be ruled out that they planned homophobic or anti -transfting actions. Preventive measures were taken to ensure the safety of the participants.

conclusion: the fight continues

The Christopher Street Day in Berlin 2023 was an important sign of solidarity for the LGBTQ+community. Despite some setbacks and challenges due to violent protests, the will to change and the struggle for equality remains unbroken. The voices that work for the protection of queer people in the Basic Law are getting louder, and the event has once again underlined the need to work against discrimination and for an open society.

- Nag