Ceven’s Blog

Last weekend we went to the Transgenialer CSD to make an episode for Coming to See Berlin (which is already finished and online). It was an unexpected experience that it was so fun to be a part of. When it comes to such things I can be fairly jaded. I was very lucky to have come out quite young (while still in high school) and since then had quite a bit exposure to both the gay mainstream and counter cultures. I’ve been both a spectator and participant through the years many times and never personally felt an outpouring of joy or flamboyance for such events. While there are many upon many people on the organizing side of the large events who are politically motivated and well intentioned, it’s the over-commercialization of the whole cause that bothered me most.

To make a big event one needs the sponsorship especially when expecting several thousand people. Stages, food and information stands, permits, police, toilets and what-have-you aren’t free. One cannot expect people to work all day out in the sun dealing with such masses without paying them and making it worth it. I have full respect for those who can organize such events and do it well. I also have no problem with grown men parading around in tight leather and feathers. It’s that I come away from such events feeling sold out. The massive size of the Berlin one leaves me thinking it’s probably more for the tourists anyhow.

What I liked most about the Trangenialer CSD was its approachability. The people putting it together do so on a shoestring budget. They are community groups and people giving their own free time. There is no major beer company sponsorship, no celebrity stage show, and I didn’t hear anyone calling it “gay pride”. It wasn’t only gay, but a political demonstration against violence, sexism, racism, and all the things that I consider to be important under one umbrella. I had no problem walking the street with these people. This particular march felt appropriate and despite a couple confrontations everyone was friendly and had a great time. The street party on Oranienstraße was also great. I’d met several Americans who were quite interesting. I do not get the opportunity to get out very often like I used to. A few summers ago I was nearly every weekend at a park party, but these days there’s more on my schedule. It was a very nice evening.