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Rainbow flag in Simmering: A strong symbol of diversity!
In June 2025, Simmering will raise the rainbow flag for diversity and equality, supported by the LGBTIQ community and local personalities.
Rainbow flag in Simmering: A strong symbol of diversity!
In the heart of Simmering today there is a shining call for diversity and equality. On June 4, 2025, the rainbow flag was hoisted at the Simmering office building - an impressive sign of support for the LGBTIQ community. District leader Thomas Steinhart (SPÖ) led the ceremony to properly welcome Pride Month. “Diversity is a strength, not a risk,” says an open letter signed by 35 personalities from Simmering and the LGBTIQ community to highlight the importance of diversity.
This lively appeal is no coincidence. The rainbow flag, also known as the pride flag, is much more than just a colorful cloth. It stands for connection, solidarity, freedom and peace - values that are particularly highlighted in June, Pride Month. This flag is often shown at events such as the Rainbow Parade or the Pride Run and symbolizes the pride of those who stand by themselves and their preferences, according to stuwo.at.
Sign of strength and support
Raising the flag also has a deeper meaning: it is intended to promote visibility and safety for the queer community. As the open letter shows, supporters such as Karin Erhart (chairwoman of Resisdanse), Ortrun Gauper (initiator of Queer Moments) and drag queen Candy Licious are strongly committed to driving positive change in the 11th district. These initiatives are supported by the district leadership, which helps them to be visible and heard.
Other signatories include Jennifer Davies, director of VHS Simmering, Jasmin Dobrovsky, a talented artist, and Anna Kampl, the Protestant pastor. Together they send a strong signal against discrimination and for acceptance. The symbolism behind the rainbow flag is not only significant in the local context, but also reflects global challenges facing the LGBTIQ community.
Global Challenges for LGBTIQ Rights
The situation for LGBTIQ people is difficult in many countries. In countries like Iraq, Uganda and even Turkey, LGBTQI+ people face the terrible consequences of discriminatory laws and societal prejudices. In Iraq, a law was passed that punished same-sex relationships with up to 15 years in prison, and in Uganda a law was passed in 2023 that provides for the death penalty for “serious homosexuality.” This shows that the demand for equality and the steps towards acceptance are unevenly distributed in different parts of the world, as Amnesty documents.
But there are also bright spots: Significant progress has recently been made in countries such as Greece, Japan and Thailand with regard to the rights of LGBTI people. These developments show that the fight for equality is gaining momentum on a global level and that the commitment of communities in countries like Austria can make an important contribution. The raising of the rainbow flag in Simmering is therefore not just a local symbol, but part of a larger movement for acceptance and tolerance.