CSD in Görlitz: Celebration of diversity despite right-wing counter-protests!

CSD in Görlitz: Celebration of diversity despite right-wing counter-protests!

On Saturday, September 27th, 2025, Görlitz became the festival mile of diversity because the fourth Christopher Street Day (CSD) took place. With the motto “Acceptance, Love, Equality!” Around 850 participants from Görlitz and the neighboring Polish town of Zgorzelec celebrated. While the colorful demonstration marched through the streets, the atmosphere was generally relaxed, although right-wing extremists had also called for a counter-demonstration at the same time.

The police, who were well prepared for the situation, ensured that there were no direct confrontations. Around 130 right-wing extremists accepted the invitation to the counter-demonstration, which was mobilized via social networks. The police ensured that both groups walked on the same route, around 200 meters apart - first the CSD participants, followed by the counter-demonstrators. This successfully avoided a direct encounter, and initial reports confirm that there were no riots or physical altercations. Nevertheless, there were isolated violations of the ban on masking and protective equipment.

An important day of remembrance

The CSD is not only a celebration, but also a significant commemoration of the events of the Stonewall riots, which began on June 28, 1969 in New York and are considered a turning point in the fight for the rights of the LGBTQI* community. This history is also of great importance in Germany, as the developments of the last few decades show. Historically, the road to equality has been long and rocky, marked by discrimination and persecution of the queer community. Karl Heinrich Ulrichs and Magnus Hirschfeld were pioneers in the fight for gay rights, but Paragraph 175, which criminalized homosexuality, remained in force in the Federal Republic of Germany until 1994.

We are currently seeing a rising threat to queer rights. The increase in anti-queer crimes and the mobilization of right-wing groups against LGBTQI* events make it clear that the protection of the rights gained is by no means a given. In these times, CSD events call for clear solidarity and a political commitment to equality.

A look into the future

The CSD in Görlitz was also a sign of solidarity and a cry for recognition in a world that is changing but also remains confronted with challenges. Historians warn against taking the achievements of the queer movement for granted, as regression is possible at any time. The CSD events are therefore more than just a celebration - they are a call to everyone to continue to fight for the rights of the LGBTQI* community and to take a stand against queer hostility.

The police measures, which also included a communications team, and the monitoring of arrival and departure traffic by the Federal Police also ensured that the event ran orderly and safely, so that the participants could enjoy the festival to the fullest. How MDR reported, the police were well positioned to accommodate peace and promote messages of tolerance and diversity.

The CSD in Görlitz will therefore not only be remembered for the celebration of love and acceptance, but also for the ongoing fight for equality. At a time when voices for greater rights are becoming louder, it remains important to use every opportunity to advocate for an open and inclusive society.

For further information on the history and significance of the LGBTQI* movement in Germany, see Deutschlandfunk culture detailed, it is essential to continue the dialogue and be part of this important movement.

Behind all of this is the call to vigilantly defend and celebrate our achievements. The people in Görlitz have proven this once again.