Magdeburg: European Pride movements set an example for diversity!

Magdeburg: European Pride movements set an example for diversity!

A significant event for the LGBTQIA+ community will take place in Magdeburg next year: from October 9th to 11th, 2024, delegates from 30 countries will gather for the annual general meeting of the European Pride Organizers Association (EPOA). The organizers of the Christopher Street Day in Magdeburg have been awarded the contract for this event, which is seen as a strong political signal at a time of pressure on queer rights. This is reported by Welt.

Falko Jentsch, board member of the CSD Magdeburg, underlines the importance of the gathering: “At a time when queer rights are under attack, we see this event as a strong sign for democracy, diversity and human rights.” This is particularly relevant as there are fears that there will be a shift to the right in the region in the year of the state elections in Saxony-Anhalt, which will take place in September 2024. The repeatedly reported obstructions to CSDs and hostility towards queer events reinforce these concerns.

Current social developments

The situation for the LGBTQIA+ community remains challenging worldwide. According to a study by Ipsos, Germany is showing slight progress in acceptance, but there are clear tensions. For example, 73% of Germans are in favor of protection against discrimination against lesbian, gay and bisexual people. The same applies to 70% of trans* people. Despite these positive statistics, many LGBT+ people feel threatened by political developments, especially given the AfD's poll numbers."

However, in international comparisons, support for LGBTQIA+ rights has fallen. Only 50% of respondents worldwide support open sexual orientations or gender identities. What's particularly concerning is that support for LGBTQIA+-friendly brands has fallen to 44% - a decline that is also felt in the multi-million dollar Pride industry.

Back to the Roots: The Cause of Newark Pride

Newark Pride, Inc. chosen. Under his leadership, the organization aims to strengthen Newark's LGBTQ+ community through programs that promote inclusivity and engagement. Blalock sees his presidency as an exciting turn for Newark Pride and is focused on taking a clear stance against anti-LGBTQ policies. The planned expansion of the organization through new fundraising activities aimed at sustainable growth will be particularly exciting.

The preparations in Magdeburg and the developments in Newark show that the community remains active to fight for rights and equality. At a time when such issues are under pressure for many people around the world, it is more important than ever that we raise our voices and stand together.