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Cologne in festival fever: CSD parade unites over a million for diversity!
On July 6, 2025, over 250 groups will march through the city center at the CSD in Cologne to demonstrate for LGBTQ rights.
Cologne in festival fever: CSD parade unites over a million for diversity!
On Sunday, Cologne will once again become the hub of the LGBTQ community when more than a million people are expected for Christopher Street Day (CSD). With around 250 groups and 60,000 participants, the colorful parade will parade through the city center from 11:30 a.m., accompanied by 90 festive floats. The organizers are sending a clear message: The demonstration is intended to put the rights of queer people in the spotlight and point out the growing threat that this community is currently experiencing. Loud World the police mobilized a strong security presence to protect the event.
The CSD in Cologne is not only one of the largest events of its kind in Germany, but also an important event for the LGBTIQ community in Europe, comparable to the CSD in Berlin. This year, however, the parade has a special urgency. The Cologne Pride association emphasizes that queer people are increasingly exposed to hostility. The police are recording an increase in anti-queer crimes, particularly from right-wing extremist groups. This development is creating a tense climate, according to a report by ZDF describes.
Growing threats in society
As extremism researcher Patrick Wielowiejski explains, the hostilities against queer people are ideologically motivated and should be seen in the context of right-wing ideologies. In recent years, the number of anti-queer attacks has increased sharply. In 2023 alone, 1,785 crimes against LGBTIQ people were registered, an increase of 50 percent compared to the previous year. This worrying development is viewed by politicians and scientists alike. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has already called for consistent prosecution of anti-queer violence.
Current figures clearly show that violence against queer people in Germany is not decreasing. Insults, violent attacks and threats in particular are increasing. In 2023, 212 people were victims of violence, an increase compared to 197 the year before. This dramatic increase was also reported daily news.
A sign of resilience
Especially in times when hostility is increasing, Christopher Street Day is an important sign of resilience and solidarity within the queer community. Beyond the festivities, the CSD is a platform to fight against discrimination and for equality. The event commemorates the historic events of 1969, when the Stonewall Inn riot marked the beginning of modern LGBTQ movements.
The Cologne CSD is not only a festival of colors and diversity, but also a powerful statement against discrimination and for acceptance. This year it is even more important that the voices from the community are loud and unmistakable. Only together can we send a signal that the further development of the rights of queer people is not irreversible.