CSD in Bernau: Celebration for diversity defies rain and counter-protest!

CSD in Bernau: Celebration for diversity defies rain and counter-protest!

Today, July 12, 2025, Christopher Street Day (CSD) will be celebrated in Bernau. Despite adverse weather conditions and the announcement of counter-protests, the spirit among the participants, who are committed to a colorful, self-confident coexistence, was unbroken. How stern.de reported that several hundred people took the opportunity to send a strong message against the right. Under the motto “Queer stays here. Together against the right” clear messages of tolerance and acceptance are spread. Banners with slogans such as “CSD instead of AfD” and “How can you hate love” illustrate the core concerns of the event.

The police ensured the security situation and signaled a high presence to protect both the CSD and the planned counter-demonstration. The city of Bernau also supported the event and hung rainbow flags throughout the city. Mayor André Stahl (Die Linke) will also take an active part in the procession. The police have so far confirmed no disruptions or crimes at the two events, which underlines the positive response to the CSD. Loud rbb24.de The CSD parade will begin promptly at lunchtime and last about two hours, followed by a celebration.

Counter-demonstrations and right-wing radicalism

Despite all the festivities, the situation remains tense. A variety of right-wing groups have called on social media to take part in the counter-protests. The group “Deutsche Jugend Voran”, which is classified as “secure right-wing extremist”, has also mobilized. These developments are particularly worrying as there have been attacks on the queer community at past events. Police spokesman Roland Kamenz estimated that several hundred participants could be expected at both events.

The increase in anti-queer crimes in Germany is alarming and has increased by around 50 percent in the past year - from 1,188 cases in 2022 to 1,785 in 2023. This shows that the threats to the queer community must be taken seriously. Also tagesschau.de reports a worrying increase in insults and acts of violence against LGBTIQ* people. In this context, the CSD in Bernau seems to be not only a celebration of love, but also a courageous act of resistance.

Looking at the cases of the last few years, it is clear: the fight for visibility and equality is far from being won. It is all the more important that events like the CSD continue to exist and offer a platform for diversity and solidarity. The committed organizers and participants in Bernau show that they will not be intimidated and will continue to advocate for a colorful and fair society.