Münster celebrates anniversary of the first gay demonstration
On April 29, 1972, homosexual Germans took to the streets for the first time to demonstrate for their rights. The group of demonstrators included not only a number of gay men. Numerous lesbian women were also part of the party back then. This special event is now celebrating its 50th anniversary. A great occasion to look back.
Since these demonstrations, the homosexual movement in Germany has been able to make a difference. Queers have been given more rights in many areas. However, there is undoubtedly still a lot to do. This is exactly what the many activists know, among others, who work every day anew for more equality and tolerance.
The demonstration 50 years ago
Perhaps few would have expected that a city like Münster, with its rather conservative reputation, would be the scene of the first demonstration for the decriminalization of homosexuals in Germany. However, it was precisely on April 29, 1972 that the time had come: around 100 to 200 people arranged to meet in Münster at the castle and led the demonstration through the city.
Afterwards, all participants were able to attend a discussion round, exchange ideas and spend a nice time together among like-minded people. It should always be kept in mind that 50 years ago it was even more difficult to network widely. After all, there was neither the Internet nor smartphones.
The very fact that the demonstration was approved at all borders on a small miracle. Many believe it was due to the authoritarian behavior of the organizer that here was finally approved. Even if some conditions had to be met: A demonstration that dealt with the rights of homosexual people and took place in the 1970s was already something very special.
Posters that caused a stir
During the demonstration, the male and female participants held up posters with very special messages. CDU chairman Joseph Strauß made the news at the time with homophobic remarks. One slogan that quickly burned itself in was: "Better a cold warrior than a warm brother".
At the time, the demonstration caused such a stir that even well-known magazines, such as "Der Spiegel," reported on it.
Not a classic "CSD
When people think of demonstrations aimed at strengthening the rights of homosexuals, they often think of the CSD. However, the first gay demonstration was far from this. While at Christopher Street Day every year quite a few gay people, drag queens and other queer personalities proudly celebrate their sexuality, the demonstration in 1972 looked quite different.
The demonstrators were dressed casually and conventionally and wanted to express that there are no differences between heterosexual and homosexual people.
One of the main demands: The decriminalization of homosexuality.
An event that also caused a stir internationally
100 to 200 demonstrators may not seem like much nowadays. However, at that time, this group of people undoubtedly caused a sensation. The demonstration even attracted homosexual organizations and their members from surrounding countries.
Some people who have looked a little deeper into the background over time suspect that the first Gay Pride Parade in the U.S. inspired the demonstrators to make the appropriate commitment.
And even if demonstrations are certainly held a little differently (and to a different extent) in today's world: The first event of this kind in the 1970s was definitely a caesura that many people will continue to talk about in the future. Rightly so.