The 2025 Berlin CSD Will Be Opened by Two Vice Presidents of the German Bundestag

This year, the Berlin CSD will be officially opened by two Vice Presidents of the German Bundestag: Josephine Ortleb (SPD) and Omid Nouripour (Alliance 90/The Greens) have confirmed their participation in the official opening on July 26, 2025, at 11:30 AM — a strong signal of democratic solidarity in a time of growing uncertainty for queer people.

Last weekend, two queer bars in Berlin were targeted in attacks, and just days later, a gay couple was physically assaulted in Neukölln. Many people in the community are currently experiencing a climate of insecurity and increasing societal regression — not only in everyday life but also in political discourse.

“In such times, clear support is needed — especially from our constitutional institutions,” explain Thomas Hoffmann and Marcel Voges, board members of Berliner CSD e.V. “The participation of two Vice Presidents of the Bundestag is a strong message to us: We are seen. We are protected. And these Vice Presidents are not hiding behind abstract notions of neutrality.”

Vice President Josephine Ortleb emphasizes:

“We are witnessing how queer people are increasingly becoming targets of far-right agitation — in election platforms, political debates, and on the streets. We must not accept this. The Berlin CSD reminds us that equality is not a given. It is a space of visibility and solidarity. As Vice President of the Bundestag, I stand with the queer community — loud, clear, and determined against all forms of hate and inhumanity.”

Vice President Omid Nouripour states:

“As Vice President of the German Bundestag, I believe it is important to make one thing clear: CSDs are lived democracy. The fight for fundamental rights is not a matter of neutrality — it is a democratic obligation for all of us. LGBTIQ+ people need solidarity across Europe, now more than ever. I am proud to join the opening of this year’s Berlin CSD.”

Within the queer community, the ongoing debate about the visibility of the rainbow flag at the Bundestag and the cancelled participation of the Bundestag administration in the CSD has been met with widespread disbelief. In times of violence, hatred, and insecurity, it is crucial that political representatives — including members of the federal government — respond not just factually, but with empathy and clear support.

This is not about party politics — it is about the essential pillars of a democratic society: respect, diversity, and participation. These values must be actively defended, especially in times of division and violence.

Berliner CSD e.V. is increasingly receiving reports from CSD organizers across Germany that Pride events are now being held under significant fear of threats and violence. This is a situation that the federal government must not ignore. We call on the German government to gain a full understanding of the reality on the ground for CSDs across the country.

Only then will it become clear: our concerns are not a circus act.

This year’s Berlin CSD carries the motto “Never Silent Again” — a call to stand up visibly, in solidarity, and in defense of democracy against queerphobia, hate, and exclusion.

Please note: the announcement of the opening speakers reflects the current status. Berliner CSD e.V. is in contact with additional high-profile individuals.