Germany appoints first ever queer representative to their government
Germany made history this past week as it appointed its first-ever queer representative to its government. Green party member Sven Lehmann was appointed to the position of Federal Government Commissioner for the Acceptance of Sexual and Gender Diversity on January 5, 2022. It is now Lehmann’s responsibility to evaluate how government policies in Germany impact its LGBTQ population.
Lehmann will also spearhead a National Action Plan for Sexual and Gender Diversity. It’s a momentous moment for Germany, which seems to be taking positive steps toward a more inclusive, equal country for its LGBTQ members to live within.
Lehmann took to his Instagram account to announce his new posting, calling himself a “queer representative” for the government.
“Everyone should be able to live free, safe, and with equal rights. The new federal government will operate progressive queer politics based on the principle of self-determination and also align family politics to the social reality of different family forms,” said Lehmann on Instagram.
Where other developed countries are struggling to validate and legitimize trans and non-binary people, with Lehmann’s appointment, Germany has emerged as a leader on these issues.
“Fundamental rights of trans, inter-and non-binary people need to finally be fully enforced,” calling for Germany to be a “pioneer in the fight against discrimination!” Lehmann posted on Instagram.
Watch this space. We can’t wait to see what Germany, and Sven Lehmann, do with this newly created position.
