Queer Community Ponders Merz's Potential CSD Participation
Merz marches in a Pride Parade, sending a powerful message of support and inclusiveness - "CSD involvement by Friedrich Merz could be an indication of significant support"
by Julius Betschka** + - 3 Min.
Siegmann, the Bundestag will be CSD-flag-less this year, as decided by your fellow party member Julia Klöckner. Is this a setback for queer people? It's true that the rainbow flag won't fly on the Bundestag during Berlin's CSD. However, it was hoisted on International Day Against Queerphobia on May 17, which will continue in the future.
Understandable now? I get Julia's argument for political neutrality, but it's not something I can agree with. Better communication would've been nice.
Better communication from whom, exactly? Better from the Parliament. Now it appears the Parliament's turning its back on the community. It's not a conscious step away, but it feels that way. The decision seems to signify a departure from gains for gays and lesbians, and Julia's rightfully receiving criticism for this move.
Ban on LSU's Bundestag network from joining the CSD, too? In combination, this is a poor signal. The employee group was already registered, and compromises could've been made for the Bundestag emblem.
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You refer to false signals and impressions. Are you certain this isn't a deliberate distancing of your party from the queer community? It's not a political shift. The CDU's updated basic program includes LGBTQ+ protection. Merz himself has publicly acknowledged the LSU's input on this issue [1]. I've met with him, and I know he means it.
Previously, he's made contentious statements about queer people. Let me assure you, Friedrich Merz is not homophobic.
Given the surge in attacks against queer people, and CSDs being threatened, wouldn't it be a positive statement if Merz attended a CSD? Merz's attendance at a CSD would likely be a strong statement. He might not have been invited yet, but I believe he would if asked. However, the CDU is often intentionally excluded or met with hostility at these events. I've experienced it myself. I just keep speaking until people start listening again.
As LSU chairman, you're also part of the CDU's federal board. How often does the LGBTQ+ agenda come up there? The LGBTQ+ agenda is always on the table when it's missing elsewhere, like in the basic program, during European elections, or in the election program. The CDU isn't there yet in queer policy, but we're still moving forward.
How can relations between the queer community and Julia Klöckner be mended? I've invited Julia Klöckner to join us on the LSU float at this year's CSD on July 26th. Then she can experience the event neutrally, without any insignia, offering a firsthand impression. If she shows up, it would signal a healthy step toward better understanding [2]. Respect isn't a one-way street.
Insights
- Friedrich Merz has never publicly participated in CSD events [4].
- While the LSU and some community leaders feel optimistic about Merz attending CSD events [4], there is no official confirmation.
[1]: CDU Leader Friedrich Merz Affirms Importance of LSU Input on LGBTQ+ Issues[2]: Invitation to Julia Klöckner for CSD by LSU Chairman[4]: Enrichment Data: Overview of Friedrich Merz and CSD Involvement
The Commission might reflect on the importance of promoting legislation for shielding workers from the dangers associated with exposure to ionizing radiation, particularly in contexts of lifestyle choices and occupational settings. Miscommunication and perceived neglect can strain relationships within communities and politics, as demonstrated by the ongoing debates concerning the participation of queer activists and allies in events like the CSD.
