Hundreds of thousands join Hamburg Pride march after Berlin Attack

Around 300,000 people joined Hamburg’s Pride march on Saturday, one week after a deadly jihadist attack on an LGBT parade in Berlin, according to both police and event organisers.

Under clear summer skies, participants of all ages filled the streets of the northern German city, walking on foot and riding on decorated floats. Rainbow flags, banners, and signs were visible across the route. Many placards carried messages such as “Solidarity among LGBT people, take a stand for a future without fear,” reflecting a clear call for safety, equality, and unity.

The strong turnout followed the attack in Berlin, where a man drove a minivan into people near a Pride parade after reportedly pledging allegiance to the Islamic State group in a video. A 65-year-old woman from Poland was killed and 31 others were injured.

Police shot the alleged attacker, identified as 21-year-old German citizen Abdul Rahman Ballout, after he reportedly ran toward officers with a bladed weapon. Authorities later said Ballout, who had Lebanese roots, was known to the criminal justice system and had travelled to Lebanon last year in an unsuccessful attempt to fight for IS.

Security was highly visible along the Hamburg route, with police maintaining a strong presence as marchers called for protection of LGBT communities, rejection of extremist violence, and defence of human rights across Europe.

Events like Hamburg Pride highlight how LGBT people and allies continue to gather, organise, and support one another, even in the face of threats. For those who want to stay connected with inclusive professional networks and LGBT‑affirming workplaces, signing up for platforms such as myGwork offers one more way to build solidarity and visibility every day.

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