"That's a big act of solidarity," she added. "Here is where heterosexuals meet with the LGBTIQ* community to celebrate diversity and what we've achieved, but also to demand political changes that haven't yet been achieved," Wolf said.
Ina Wolf, a board member with parade organizers Association of Lesbians and Gay Cologne (KLuST), told DW it was important for the parade to remain a political demonstration. Cheap Stud Earrings, Buy Quality Jewelry & Accessories Directly from China Suppliers:LGBT Colour Round Hypoallergenic Ear Nail Earrings For Women Men Fashion Lovers Jewelry Gay Pride Bijoux Accessories Pendientes Enjoy Free Shipping Worldwide Limited Time Sale Easy Return. Read more: Gay 'conversion therapy' ban in Germany gains momentum But it was a party with a message, with groups carrying signs calling for more action on climate change, more inclusion of trans- and intersex people and more awareness of people of color in the LGBT+ community.
The parade was filled with loud music, lots of bubbles and even more free hugs. The other partner has to adopt in order to be given the same parental rights. In Germany, even if a lesbian couple are married, only the woman who gives birth is recognized as a child's mother. "And," she joked, "it has better beer."īoth women said how important it was to come out to the parade and continue to push for equal rights, especially when it comes to LGBT+ parents. "It's also more multicultural," added another woman, who gave her name as Hörnchen. "Cologne is more tolerant than other cities," said Birgit, a 55-year-old who is from the city. When asked what makes Cologne's parade so special in Germany, many were quick to answer. In contrast to other pride parades in Germany, organizers in Cologne have made their event a political demonstration, purposefully limiting the size of the floats to maintain its protest atmosphere.īut the parade was also a celebration of the city itself. Carnival songs were peppered into the parade performances, which wound through Cologne's old town. People gathered early in front of the famed cathedral to march in the paradeĪround 150 different groups signed up to march in this year's parade.