CSD Olpe: Be loud, be proud – a sign of tolerance and diversity!

CSD Olpe: Be loud, be proud – a sign of tolerance and diversity!

On July 13, 2025, the now annual Christopher Street Day (CSD) took place in Olpe, which was celebrated under the motto “Be loud, be proud, be colorful”. Georg Schulte, the first chairman of the CSD Olpe, emphasized the great importance of such events for the visibility and rights of the LGBTQIA+ community. “We have learned from history, we have to be louder!” said Schulte during the opening speech. The CSD Olpe is not only a festival, but also a symbol of tolerance and acceptance that is strongly committed to queer visibility in the Olpe district. According to the queer network NRW, this creates an important space for the community to network and be visible.

Numerous visitors came together in the colorful celebration, which was designed by artists such as “Ohrenpost”, “JonAlien”, “Cassy Carrington” and “Kulturschock”. The mood was exuberant and the enthusiasm of the participants was visible to everyone. An anonymous voice from a participant summed it up: "It's important to show that we are there, that we exist. We just want to be able to live our lives." This shows how important such an event is to celebrate and emphasize the diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community.

A committed association

The CSD Olpe has set itself the goal of raising awareness about the rights of queer people and improving the social context. In addition, the association is committed to a diverse society and also offers other events outside of the CSD to support the community and educate on topics such as sexual orientation, HIV and STI prevention. Those interested can find further information and support via social media and their own website.

In the historical context, LGBTQIA+ rights in Germany have long been associated with discrimination and disadvantage. For decades, homosexual acts were punishable under Section 175 of the Criminal Code, and social acceptance was low. It was only with the emancipation movements in the 1970s and the first CSD event in Germany in 1979 that a slow but steady change towards more equality took place. The CSD is one of the largest demonstrations for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community today and reflects the progress that has been made, but is also a reminder that challenges still remain.

The CSD Olpe not only shows the celebration of diversity, but also reminds us of the journey that the community has been behind - and the path that still lies ahead of them. Politicians and social actors are called upon to clearly advocate equal treatment for all, especially since right-wing populist movements are exerting increasing pressure on the progress made. The CSD is an urgent call to continue to fight for an inclusive society in which everyone is accepted.