Armand Zorn, Deputy Leader of the SPD parliamentary group, has publicly distanced himself from Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s recent remarks regarding the display of the rainbow flag at the German parliament. Merz had stated that the Bundestag was “not a circus tent” in defense of the decision by the Speaker of the Bundestag to refrain from raising the flag during this year’s Christopher Street Day (CSD) celebrations, a departure from previous years.
Speaking to RTL and ntv, Zorn described Merz’s statement as “very unfortunate” and urged the Chancellor to reconsider his words. He emphasized the significance of the rainbow flag’s display at CSD events across Germany and Europe, arguing that these are not frivolous affairs.
Zorn highlighted that the Bavarian state parliament would be raising the rainbow flag for the upcoming CSD, suggesting that the comparison to a circus is unwarranted. He believes the Chancellor’s comments were inaccurate and called for a correction.
The SPD politician stressed that raising the rainbow flag has become a standard practice in Germany, particularly at a time when LGBTQ+ individuals face increased hostility. “I don’t think we can afford not to do this” Zorn asserted, indicating the importance of visibility and support for the community.
