Berlin, May 18 – A new burial and memorial site for queer individuals has been officially inaugurated in Berlin-Schöneberg, providing a dedicated space for mourning and remembrance. The site, located at the Old St. Matthew’s Cemetery, was opened yesterday afternoon, May 17, 2026, coinciding with the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, and Transphobia.
“Kissing Stone” and Space for Remembrance
A central feature of the new site is a “Kissing Stone” – a bright stone where lipstick imprints can be left as a gesture of remembrance. According to Schwulenberatung Berlin (Gay Counselling Berlin), the memorial aims to honor queer life stories, offer a place for grief and remembrance, and stand as a symbol against exclusion and forgetting.
The facility can accommodate up to eight coffins and 100 urns. Additionally, a memorial wall is available for engraving the names and life dates of the deceased. Schöneberg is widely recognized as the “Rainbow Kiez” and serves as a vital hub for queer life in the capital.
The project seeks to create a dignified place of remembrance, particularly for individuals who may have lost contact with their biological families or whose burials might otherwise be anonymous. “Some LGBTI individuals, especially those who have experienced discrimination and exclusion, perceive their lives as less valuable and do not consider what happens after their death. We want to counter these challenges with a special burial and memorial site,” stated Schwulenberatung Berlin. LGBTI is an acronym for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and intersex individuals.
Rainbow Flags Raised Across Berlin and Brandenburg
In observance of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, and Transphobia, rainbow flags were hoisted at city halls across Berlin and Brandenburg. The Tempelhof-Schöneberg district office highlighted that the queer community is increasingly subjected to hostility and attacks.
The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, and Transphobia has been observed annually on May 17 since 2005. This date commemorates May 17, 1990, when the World Health Organization (WHO) decided to remove homosexuality from its diagnostic classification of diseases.
Combating Discrimination and Fostering Dignity
The establishment of this memorial site underscores Berlin’s commitment to inclusivity and the recognition of its diverse communities. It serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by queer individuals and a beacon of hope for a more accepting future. By providing a dedicated space for remembrance, the city aims to ensure that the lives and legacies of queer individuals are honored and never forgotten.
This initiative is a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive society where all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can find dignity and respect, even in death. It also reinforces the importance of continuous efforts to combat discrimination and promote understanding within the community.
The project has been met with widespread support from queer rights organizations and community leaders, who view it as a crucial development in the ongoing fight for equality and recognition.
Source: https://berliner-abendblatt.de/berlin-news/grab-und-gedenkstaette-fuer-queere-menschen-eingeweiht-id334354
