A look back: The first Christopher Street Day in Berlin 1979

A look back: The first Christopher Street Day in Berlin 1979

The influence of Christopher Street Day on the Berlin Community

The Christopher Street Day (CSD) has its roots in the USA and celebrated his first big festival in Berlin in 1979. Since then he has shaped the city sustainably and influenced numerous generations. Rolf Fischer, a participant in the first CSD, remembers the beginnings and its meaning for the LGBTQ+community.

a new chapter of visibility

The CSD is not just a festival of colors and joy; It also symbolizes the demand for equality and recognition. This important event was initiated by Andreas Pareik and Tom baking, who returned to New York after a visit and were enthusiastic about the movement there. Your initiative inspired many to stand up for your own rights and the community.

The way to the first demonstration

In the 1970s, life for the LGBTQ+community in Germany was still shaped by discrimination. Rolf Fischer, who moved from Heidelberg to West Berlin in 1974, was part of the homosexual campaign West Berlin (HAW). This group prepared the soil for the first demonstration, which took place on June 30, 1979. Supported by Becker and Gaiser, who registered the event with the police, a sign of more visibility and acceptance was set.

personal memories and social change

fischer describes his exciting first steps at the CSD with the words: "I hung the camera around my neck and rushed off." This spirit of optimism reflects the spirit of the time - the desire for freedom and the courage to show itself. The CSD made it possible for many people to proudly present their identity and to network socially.

meaning of the CSD for today's society

Today the CSD is a central part of Berlin culture and attracts thousands of participants who jointly stand up for the rights of the LGBTQ+community. The origin of the CSD, characterized by the initiative of committed citizens, has developed into a significant movement that has an inspiring effect worldwide. Fischer and the first activists have shown courage that is still a drive for many today.

A look into the future

The attention and support of the CSD in Berlin contributed to the creation of a tolerant and diverse environment. In view of the current challenges in relation to discrimination and equality, the CSD remains an important event that will continue to mobilize and inspire the next generations.

- Nag