Chemnitz is before CSD: Dispute over rainbow flag on the town hall broke out!

Chemnitz is before CSD: Dispute over rainbow flag on the town hall broke out!

In Chemnitz it is bubbling! The Christopher Street Day (CSD) takes place on July 26, 2025, but the discussion about the hoist of the rainbow flag on the town hall provides a lot of explosive. Mayor Sven Schulze (SPD), who is actually a patron of the event, has decided not to set a visible sign of support for the LGBTIQ community. This not only causes resentment for the Greens, but also attracts criticism within the SPD.

The green city councilor Joseph Israel had vehemently pleaded for the rainbow flag, but pushed deaf ears. Schulze dismissed a planned conversation with the Chemnitz LGBTIQ community and explained that "lived acceptance counts more than symbolism". This decision shocked many, especially against the background of the worrying security situation for queer people in the city.

flag differences and security situation

According to Schulze and the city administration, one refers to an internal flag regulation that only allows the flags of EU, the federal government, state and city. This looks something like an excuse when you consider that the facade of the main station in colorful rainbow colors should shine to celebrate the CSD. One step in the right direction, but the absence of the flag on the town hall remains a bitter aftertaste. Richard Auerbach from the SPD sub-district board is stunned by his party colleague's approach and emphasizes that Chemnitz as a cultural capital should be visible to queer people.

In view of the rising right violence in Saxony, which, according to a statista reportage in 2022, increased by 8%, it is important to set a clear sign against discrimination. The number of attacks on LGBTIQ people rose by 163% compared to 2021, which raises significant concerns. Alcoholized attackers and worrying incidents at CSD celebrations show that the protection of minorities should have a top priority and this can not only be realized by symbolic gestures-here deeds are asked that promote acceptance in everyday life.

the CSD 2025 in Chemnitz

Nevertheless, the CSD in Chemnitz on July 26, 2025 is expected to be well attended - numerous participants: inside is expected. And even if there is no flag at the town hall, you can only hope that the event itself receives enough attention and sets a sign of diversity and acceptance. The Chemnitz LGBTIQ-Community hopes for a positive sign and for more support in society.

It remains to be seen whether Schulze's decision will actually remain permanent or whether there will be a positive turn in the future. It is clear: Chemnitz has set itself the task of being a safe place for all people, regardless of their sexual orientation. The coming days will show whether the city can do justice to this responsibility.

For further information on the increasing attacks on queer people in Saxony, it is advisable to take a look at the numbers of taz .

How the debate about the flag is developing remains exciting - however, it is clear that Chemnitz needs a powerful community of all people to manage the challenges of time together. Let's stand up for respectful cooperation!