CSD Wiesbaden 2013

Last Saturday was the Christopher Street Day (CSD) - Gay Pride March in Wiesbaden. It was the second year that this had taken place in Wiesbaden. This year there was a march though the pedestrianised part of Wiesbaden. About 500 people toke part and although much smaller than in Cities like Frankfurt or Berlin, I feel that we got our message out. Saturday was extremely hot and we had expected rain showers, but they did not materialise. At the end of the March a cultural festival had been arranged at Schlachthof, a cultural venue close to the Wiesbaden train station. There was the usual panel political discussions that one has come to expect at these functions in Germany. I think that the representative of the Pirate party made the most sense, or at least he was the best speaker. It was also good to be greeted by the recently elected mayor of Wiesbaden, Sven Gerich.

After the political debate a number of artists performed. We left around 5 pm and returned later for the after party. I am pleased that I went, even if it was not the personal social success I had hoped for. I felt that I had performed my political duty on the day. To be seen to take part and to add to the numbers was vital when so many other were not bothered to show their support for CSD. Obviously too busy enjoying the freedom of expression that other had fought for on their behalf. The after party itself was very well attended.