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CSD Pirna 2025: Security strengthens colorful diversity against right-wing protests!
On July 12, 2025, the CSD celebrates in Pirna, Saxony, with increased police presence and challenges from right-wing extremists.
CSD Pirna 2025: Security strengthens colorful diversity against right-wing protests!
The 14th Christopher Street Day (CSD) will take place in Pirna on July 12th, which this year will be celebrated under the motto “Diversity goes queer through society”. This event promises a colorful and happy atmosphere, but the planning is accompanied by challenges, such as Sächsische.de reported. The far-right Free Saxony party has announced a counter-demonstration, which will undoubtedly cast a shadow over the celebrations. Christian Hesse, chairman of the CSD Pirna association, expressed concern about the expected challenges, but remains optimistic: “We will have a happy, exuberant and peaceful event.”
To ensure the safety of participants, a comprehensive security concept was created. Marko Laske, spokesman for the Dresden Police Department, confirmed that there would be more police on site to prevent possible conflicts. This approach is similar to the experiences at the CSD in Bautzen and Görlitz last year, where there were also right-wing extremist protests, but no serious incidents were recorded.
A tense climate
The anticipation of the CSD is overshadowed by a controversial decision: Mayor Tim Lochner, who is considered close to the AfD, has banned the hoisting of the rainbow flag at the town hall because he sees this symbol as a political statement. This is met with incomprehension by many citizens. Innkeeper Cindy Huber explained that the rainbow flag represents freedom and is not political. Together with other restaurateurs, she is planning to set up stands in the city center to support the CSD.
The reactions are different: While many Pirna residents see the CSD as an integral part of their city, Lochner compares the raising of the flag to the swastika. This comparison has sparked outrage across the country and highlights the tensions that exist in the current political landscape. Pastor Cornelius Epperlein, who hoists the flag at St. Mary's Church, is facing threats. Drag queen Meryl Deep calls for solidarity in her “Tour for Tolerance” campaign, which receives some prominent support from personalities such as Bettina Böttinger and Hape Kerkeling.
Expectations for the CSD
This year, organizers expect up to 15,000 visitors, three times as many as in previous years. Preparations are already in full swing, and Christian Hesse reports that buses have been announced from Berlin and Cologne. Special highlights on stage will include Miss Chantal, Kevin Neon and Wanda Kay. In addition, the Diversity Award will be presented again, which underlines the importance of the event.
The history of the Pride movement in Germany is a long one, looking back on the courage of activists like Karl Heinrich Ulrichs and Magnus Hirschfeld, who fought for equality and visibility. While there have been advances in the rights of the LGBTQI community in recent years, current events show that the fight for acceptance and tolerance is far from over. Awareness of discrimination and persecution remains high and it is clear that solidarity and political commitment are necessary to defend the progress made.
For more information about the CSD in Pirna, it is worth taking a look at the website www.csd-pirna.de.