By: Paul Goldberg, Senior Editor | JRL CHARTS – LGBT Politics Europe
BERLIN, GERMANY — (June 20, 2025) — In a move stirring headlines across Europe, a pair of Berlin parents have filed a lawsuit demanding the removal of the rainbow Pride flag flown atop their daughter’s after-school care center. The parents argue that the LGBT symbol represents a “political agenda” and has no place in public education.
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The lawsuit, now set for hearing on June 25, challenges whether Pride flags violate neutrality laws governing state-run schools. A ruling in the parents’ favor could set a legal precedent for educational institutions nationwide—potentially barring rainbow flags, and by extension, Pride visibility, from school properties.
Critics say this is part of a growing anti-‘woke’ movement that seeks to roll back LGBT representation in public life.
Germany’s major parties—from the left to the center-right—have long embraced LGBT equality and visibility, celebrating Pride Month and flying the rainbow flag as a symbol of inclusion. However, the plaintiffs contend the flag has shifted from representing identity to representing ideology.
Meanwhile, in the state of Bavaria, the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party recently proposed legislation banning Pride and EU flags on all government buildings. They argue only national, state, and municipal flags should be allowed, calling it a matter of German sovereignty.
The backlash was swift.
The Greens condemned the move as “a ban on the queer community from public space,” while the ruling CSU called it “a political attack on diversity and democratic values.”
In a statement that drew global attention, AfD co-leader Alice Weidel—herself in a same-sex relationship—distanced the party from modern LGBT activism.
“We do not want gender representatives or drag queens in schools. We do not want our kids to be confused. I will not support gender, woke, and green policies that are damaging to society,” said Weidel.”
The outcome of the Berlin court case is expected the same day as the hearing and could reverberate throughout Europe as the battle over “woke” culture, public education, and LGBT visibility intensifies.
Stay with JRL CHARTS LGBT Politics Europe for the court’s ruling on June 25 and the latest global developments impacting LGBTQ+ rights.
