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 not to raise the flag on Christopher Street Day (CSD), 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 flag during the upcoming CSD, questioning the implication that such an act was comparable to a circus. He asserted that Merz’s comment was inaccurate and requested a reconsideration and correction.
The SPD politician underscored that raising the rainbow flag has become a standard practice in Germany, particularly given the heightened challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. “I believe we can handle it if we do this” Zorn stated, implying that the symbolic gesture is a meaningful expression of support and inclusion.