The City of Offenbach is sending a message of diversity and democracy at the 2026 CSD

On July 18, the city of Offenbach made its first appearance at Christopher Street Day (CSD) in Frankfurt with a strong contingent—a joint marching group consisting of employees from the city administration, the Offenbach Fire Department, and the Offenbach Municipal Daycare Center (EKO). The Offenbach Fire Department has been participating regularly in the event since 2022. This year, for the first time, the group was joined by colleagues from other departments of the city administration. The Offenbach delegation was also accompanied by City Councilmember Helena Wolf, who oversees this area. Members of the newly founded CSD Association, which is organizing the first Christopher Street Day in Offenbach, were also in attendance.

This year’s CSD was held under the motto “Democracy Needs No Alternative.” With flags bearing its employer brand “Total spießig?”—deliberately crossed out—and the slogan “Offenbach—obviously different,” the city of Offenbach sent a clear message of openness, diversity, and respectful coexistence.

“Offenbach stands for diversity and respectful coexistence. It’s important to me that this attitude is also reflected in our city administration. I’m delighted that this year, in addition to the Offenbach Fire Department, employees from various departments of the city administration and EKO participated together in Frankfurt’s CSD for the first time. This shows that openness and mutual respect are an integral part of our work culture,” says City Councilwoman Helena Wolf.

In summery weather and a positive atmosphere, the Offenbach group marched through downtown Frankfurt alongside thousands of other participants.

Operations Manager Alexander Bernbach, who has been organizing the fire department’s participation since 2022, also draws a positive conclusion: “It’s wonderful to see how our group grows from year to year. For us, participating in the CSD has long been more than just a single event—it’s an expression of our open-minded attitude. The great atmosphere and the camaraderie within the group made the day something special.”

By participating in the CSD, the city of Offenbach underscores its commitment to an open and respectful work culture. Diversity is an integral part of the city and its day-to-day administration, and will continue to be highlighted in the future. This participation is intended as an expression of the city’s commitment to respect, tolerance, and equal opportunity, as well as a visible pledge to a society free of discrimination.

For the first time, an organization is also organizing a Christopher Street Day in Offenbach on September 19, for which Mayor Dr. Felix Schwenke has agreed to serve as patron. The organization CSD Offenbach e.V. aims to send a clear message in support of diversity, democracy, and respectful coexistence, and against anti-queer violence in Offenbach as well.

“The attack on Berlin’s CSD on July 25 and the increasing violence against queer people, including in Offenbach, underscore in a horrific way what intolerance and hatred can lead to. This makes it all the more important to stand up for an open society. A society in which it doesn’t matter what someone looks like, where they come from, or whom they love—a society in which all people are of equal worth. This stance has nothing to do with politics, but rather with humanity, love for one’s neighbor, and respect for life. We must defend this stance in our country,” Mayor Schwenke and City Councilwoman Wolf emphasized in conclusion.