A Berlin court has ruled that a Pride rainbow flag may remain displayed at a primary school aftercare centre, rejecting parents’ concerns that the symbol violates the principle of state neutrality.
The lawsuit, filed by parents of a female pupil, challenged the continued display of the flag. They argued that the use of political symbols is not permitted in state education institutions, and they see the flag as part of a “politicised” agenda that is not suitable for children.
They also objected to the flag’s political connotation, namely that there are more than just two biological sexes.In its decision on Wednesday, June 25th, the court concluded that the flag does not constitute a partisan political symbol and therefore does not violate legal neutrality obligations.
The judge said that schools must be open “to the diversity of views and educational issues.”
