Anti-Queer Hatred Kills — We Will Not Back Down

The Attack on Berlin Pride (CSD) Is an Attack on the Entire LGBTQI+ Community

The deadly attack on Berlin’s Christopher Street Day was a direct assault on the LGBTQI+ community, on our right to visibility, and on our freedom to exist safely in public spaces. One person lost their life and dozens of others were injured. We mourn the person killed in this horrific attack and extend our unwavering solidarity to those injured, their families and loved ones, and the entire queer community.

This attack was not directed solely at those present in Berlin. It was an attack on the entire LGBTQI+ community worldwide. Regardless of the country we come from, the language we speak, the religion we follow, or where we live, anti-queer hatred threatens the lives and freedoms of us all.

CSD is far more than a celebration. It represents resistance, the right to visibility, and our historic struggle to live freely, equally, and without fear. An attack on CSD is an attack on human dignity, human rights, freedom, and democracy.

Expressions of sorrow alone are not enough. We demand a thorough and transparent investigation, the effective prosecution of those responsible, meaningful protection for LGBTQI+ events and queer community spaces, an end to cuts in funding for queer programmes, and decisive action against anti-queer hatred and every form of extremism—whether rooted in religious fundamentalism or the far right.

We will not allow terror and hatred to silence our community, force us into invisibility, or drive us out of public life.

No border, nationality, or geographical distance can divide us. The pain of one member of our community is shared by us all. An attack on any one of us is an attack on us all.

We grieve, but we will not be silent.

We were attacked, but we will not hide.

We remain united, visible, and defiant.

Rainbow Afghanistan e.V.

26 July 2026