The rainbow flag is established as a symbol for the LGBTQIA community. However, for some time now, the community has also used a flag that puts more of a focus on trans and interpersonal concerns. The Family Ministry hoists the latter – and is thus in trouble.
Flag dispute between two federal ministries: The so-called Progress rainbow flag has been waving in front of the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs since the anniversary of “Christopher Street Day” on June 28 – although the Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI), which is responsible for flags on federal buildings, previously pointed out in writing that there was no approval gives for it.
Upon request, both ministries confirmed a corresponding report from “Caution, Reichelt!”, the YouTube channel of the former “Bild” editor-in-chief Julian Reichelt. The progress rainbow flag contains additional stripes in several colors applied in a triangular shape and an additional dot. Among other things, it should also stand for the interests of trans and inter people as well as people of color (POC).
In a letter dated April 6 to ministries, the Bundestag and Bundesrat, among others, the Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI) approved the hoisting of the traditional rainbow flag on federal buildings. On June 13, the ministry led by SPD politician Nancy Faeser then sent another letter to the family ministry led by Green politician Lisa Paus. According to the BMI, it was pointed out “that the hoisting of further logo flags is not covered by the BMI letter of April 6, 2022 and cannot otherwise be approved”.
A spokeswoman for the Ministry of Family Affairs said on the question of why this flag was hoisted instead of the rainbow flag: “As the Ministry of Equal Opportunities, we are proud to hoist the Progress rainbow flag this year to show a special solidarity with all trans and inter people. With this, the house expresses unequivocally that it stands up for all queer people.” The flag is said to be flying in front of the ministry until July 29.
The Ministry of the Interior said that displaying flags that were not in accordance with the federal government’s decree on flags was illegal. However, violations have no legal consequences. It is generally expected that all departments will adhere to the regulations laid down in the flag decree.