Berlin Pride attack: a grim reminder of the threats we still face

The horror that unfolded in Berlin this weekend, when a suspected terrorist drove a vehicle into a crowd celebrating Christopher Street Day, killing one and injuring up to 29 others, has sent a chill through communities across Europe. For many in Britain, it is a very real reminder of why events like Pride remain essential — not merely as celebrations, but as acts of defiance against those who would see us silenced.

The attack, which took place in the Tiergarten park area of the German capital, struck at the heart of a movement that has long fought for visibility and safety. As the rainbow flags flew over Berlin, the violence served as a brutal counterpoint to the joy of the occasion. Organisers of Folkestone Pride in Kent, where thousands gathered on Saturday, expressed their solidarity and grief. 'While we came together in solidarity yesterday, our community was under attack in Berlin,' they wrote. 'We are devastated for the person killed, those injured and all who have been affected. The impact of such a horrific act is felt throughout our entire community.'

German chancellor Friedrich Merz, addressing those taking part in Christopher Street Day events across Germany, struck a resolute tone. 'Do not let yourselves — let us not — be intimidated,' he said. It is a message that resonates deeply with British pragmatism. We have seen similar attempts to divide us, from the Manchester Arena bombing to the London Bridge attacks. We know that the response must be one of quiet, unyielding resolve.

Newcastle Pride, which held its own celebrations on Sunday, organised a candlelit vigil for the victims. In a statement, they said: 'We are heartbroken to read the news of the tragic events at Berlin Pride. Pride is about joy, community and the freedom to exist without fear. We are sending love, strength and solidarity to the victims, their families and everyone in Berlin. Sadly it is a very real reminder of why Pride is still needed.'

Ella's global community, representing queer women and non-binary people, echoed those sentiments. 'One day after celebrating Pride, we're reminded why Pride still matters,' they wrote. 'Berlin Pride ended in tragedy after a vehicle drove into the crowd near the closing celebrations. Today, our thoughts are with the victims, their families and everyone affected. Pride has always been more than a celebration. It is about visibility. It is about safety. It is about standing together.'

Brighton Pride, the UK's largest Pride event, which takes place next weekend, also issued a statement of solidarity. 'We are deeply saddened by the attack in Berlin. We stand in solidarity with the Berlin LGBTQ+ community. This is why we march for our rights. Pride should be a place of celebration and joy. Brighton stands with Berlin.'

German authorities launched a manhunt for the suspect, named as Abdul B. Berlin Police confirmed on Sunday evening that he had been shot dead on the outskirts of the city. The swift resolution of the manhunt will bring some relief, but the questions it raises about security and the nature of the threat we face will not be so easily answered.

This attack is a stark reminder that the freedoms we cherish — to gather, to celebrate, to live openly — are not guaranteed. They must be defended, day after day, with the same quiet determination that has defined this nation's response to terrorism for generations. As we look to Brighton next weekend, and to events across the country, we do so with a heavy heart but a clear resolve. We will not be cowed.