Germany's LGBTQ community rallies against the far-right, police in New Zealand investigate an assault at an anti-drag protest, and a center offers a lifeline for trans people in Bolivia.
Germany’s LGBTQ Community Rallies Against Far Right
Thousands poured onto the streets across Germany, waving rainbow flags and signs that read “Choose Love,” as they protested against the rising influence of the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party.
According to the Guardian, days before a pivotal election, simultaneous rallies in 50 cities showed unity amid growing concerns over LGBTQ rights.
“Many queer people are unsettled by the social and political situation,” organizers wrote.
Alva Träbert, a member of Germany’s LGBTQ umbrella group called LSVD, warned: “We are looking at political actors openly including anti-queer and anti-trans policy in their campaigns.”
With the AfD projected to gain significant ground, LGBTQ activists fear increased discrimination. Despite this, the community remains resilient, with more people stepping up to support equality.
Police Investigate Assault at Anti-Drag Protest in NZ
Police are investigating allegations of assault after anti-drag protesters stormed a family-friendly drag event in Auckland, New Zealand.
Linked to the Christian fundamentalist group Destiny Church, around 50 protesters disrupted the Te Atatū library event, forcing 30 children and adults to barricade inside. The event, part of Auckland’s Pride festival, was ultimately canceled.
According to The Pink News, a 16-year-old girl attending a nearby sports event alleged she was assaulted, suffering a concussion.
Inspector Simon Walker condemned the protest, stating, “Nobody, especially children, should ever be made to feel unsafe.” He urged victims to report incidents.
No arrests have been made, but police continue to investigate the disruption, which Walker said “crossed a line.”
Casa Trans Offers Lifeline for Bolivia’s Trans Community
Casa Trans Pamela Valenzuela in La Paz, Bolivia. Courtesy photo.
Casa Trans Pamela Valenzuela in La Paz has been a refuge for Bolivia’s trans community since 2022, providing food, legal aid, medical care, and shelter to those in need.
The center was created to address the challenges trans people faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many lost their livelihoods in informal jobs or sex work and found themselves homeless.
“Many suffered from housing and food issues,” said Luna Humérez, director of Casa Trans. “The creation of Casa Trans was to mitigate a little and help the trans population with free food from Monday to Friday.”
According to The Washington Blade, Casa Trans now offers a wide range of services, including psychological support, legal assistance, and job training. A multidisciplinary team — including a lawyer, social worker, and psychologist — works to provide holistic care. The center also arranges scholarships for those wanting to study at universities or technical institutes.
Despite its success, Casa Trans struggles with funding.
“The challenges are complicated because we do not have direct funding,” Humérez said, noting that many workers are volunteers. She emphasized the need for financial support to sustain Casa Trans’ vital services. “Our work is very important,” she added, underscoring the ongoing fight for trans rights in Bolivia.
