Berlin Pride attack prompts grief and solidarity with LGBTQ community
Thousands of people gathered in Berlin to mourn the victims of the deadly attack on the city's Pride celebrations, with emotional vigils and messages of unity showing that the LGBTQ+ community refuses to be intimidated by violence.
The attack took place during Berlin's annual Christopher Street Day (CSD – Pride celebration), when a vehicle drove into crowds, killing one person and injuring more than a dozen others. In response, organizers cancelled several planned events, including a community breakfast and post-parade activities, as the city entered a period of mourning.
Despite heavy rain and heightened security, thousands gathered at Pariser Platz near the Brandenburg Gate for a candlelight vigil. Participants observed a moment of silence, carried rainbow flags, lit candles, and expressed grief while calling for solidarity and resilience in the face of hatred and extremism.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig joined a memorial service at St. Mary's Church to honor the victims. Berlin's LGBTQ+ Commissioner, Alfonso Pantisano, said the community was united by grief but would not allow fear to destroy the values of equality, inclusion, and freedom that Pride represents.
Berlin has long been regarded as one of Europe's most important centers of LGBTQ+ culture and rights. Community leaders, artists, and activists stressed that the city's history of overcoming discrimination and violence would continue to inspire strength and unity, sending a clear message that the attack would not silence or divide the community.