Berlin's Queer and Trans* History – From the German Empire to Today (in English)

Trans* people have always existed, but they achieved particular visibility in Berlin at the beginning of the 20th century. This is due to the groundbreaking research of Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld at his Institute for Sexual Science.

When Hirschfeld set out to study homosexuality, he discovered that some of the people who sought him out were experiencing something entirely different from homosexuality. Hirschfeld concluded that “a person’s gender resides much more in their soul than in their body, or, to use medical terminology, in the brain rather than in the genitals.” This was an early exploration of the concept of gender.

In collaboration with the police and the government, Hirschfeld sought to create a safe space for LGBTQ+ people. By the standards of the time, they were able to lead a surprisingly authentic life in Berlin, with their own clubs, magazines, and, as is well known, a vibrant nightlife.

Participants will delve deeply into this magnificent, decadent world. The National Socialists’ seizure of power in 1933 brought an end to the democratic Weimar Republic and had catastrophic consequences for the queer community.

What was the Nazis’ actual stance on homosexuality? Weren’t there also gay Nazis? These topics will also be addressed.

Another section covers the end of World War II and the period that followed, as well as the ongoing struggle for the visibility and recognition of LGBTQ+ people. But the message is meant to highlight the beauty and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as to keep alive the memory of the predecessors of whom you can be so proud. Happy Pride!

Eliot Rix has lived in Berlin for 12 years. When he came out as a trans* gay man at age 34, he wanted to discover Berlin’s queer history to feel a sense of belonging in his adopted home. Berlin did not disappoint!

IN ENGLISH