Schleswig-Holstein’s Minister of Social Affairs Aminata Touré (Greens) used the Christopher Street Day (CSD) celebration in Lübeck to reiterate her solidarity with the queer community. At the same time, she urged the federal government to bolster protections and visibility for queer people. “Queer rights and equality are non-negotiable. They form the foundation of a free and diverse society,” Touré said. Merely being concerned is not enough. “We need visible solidarity and a policy that stands with those affected and leads this fight alongside them.”
The minister announced that the black-green state government would soon adopt the new State Action Plan Real Diversity. This plan, developed in close collaboration with the queer community, includes financial and structural measures as well as practical tips for greater visibility and for advancing queer individuals in Schleswig-Holstein. Schleswig-Holstein currently funds clubs, structures, and projects in queer policy with more than €600,000 annually.
At the same time, Touré criticized the planned cuts by Federal Family Minister Karin Prien to the federal program “Democracy Lives!” “You cannot promise more protection in the face of attacks and hatred and then wink through cuts in the next step. Cutting structures in the middle of this situation is wrong and incredibly dangerous.”
Marcy Ellerton
