Unconventional sexual orientation or gender identity. - Bettina Böttinger backs the CSD in Pirna.
Bettina Böttinger, a TV journalist, has asked for help to show support for the Christopher Street Day parade in Pirna this year. The event will happen on July 13th, and she believes it's crucial for promoting tolerance, respect, and diversity. Böttinger, who used to host "Kölner Treff," spoke to the German Press Agency in Cologne about her stance.
As part of the "Tour for Tolerance," a bus full of supporters will travel from Cologne to Pirna on July 13th to join the parade. The CSD event in Pirna has gained more attention this year, with controversial comments made by Tim Lochner, the independent, AfD-affiliated mayor. Lochner shared his criticisms about the local evangelical parish hoisting a rainbow flag on the International Day against Homo- and Transphobia on Facebook, likening it to Nazi swastika flags on churches during the Nazi era. Böttinger, who is married to a woman, called this comparison "unthinkable."
Böttinger urged people not just to protect the queer community but the entire society from such statements, as it's about promoting tolerance and diversity in general. "When I see the rainbow flag hanging somewhere, it represents democratic understanding for me," she said. "That is, in this country, any person is welcomed who stands for our democratic fundamental values - and that's a great sign."
The Christopher Street Day is an annual event in multiple cities worldwide, remembering the events of June 28, 1969, when police raided the New York gay and lesbian bar "Stonewall Inn" on Christopher Street, resulting in protests by the gay, lesbian, and transsexual community.
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Source: www.stern.de
