'The unusual has always been the normal in here'

You lived in Berlin since 1981, and have often spoken about growing up gay in East Germany. What do you think makes Berlin and its queer scene so special?

NB: The city has a long tradition of queer life.
Berlin is constantly in progress, the hierarchies are not fixed and very different cultures live together. The queer scene as well is multi layered and diverse in its best sense.
The unusual has always been the normal in here.
In addition to the traditional gayborhood in Schöneberg, new places have emerged across the entire city, bars in Mitte, pubs in Prenzlauer Berg and Wedding, clubs in Friedrichshain and Neukölln.
Urban society is constantly on the move; there is little that is stuck or firmly established here.

What political changes do you see having an impact now? And what are personal and political actions that you think are important at this current moment?

NB: Right now some folks want to hit the reverse button and undo changes. Society is becoming less progressive, more fearful and more threatened; scapegoats and outlets are quickly sought, which often affects minorities.
I think it's important that queer people don't hide in everyday life and in their work environment and show their presence as a matter of course.

What does Pride Month represent to you? Are you joining the CSD demonstration, or any other demonstrations and events that are held this week?

NB:Yes I do take part at the CSD events.
When I was a student I still met someone who was imprisoned in a concentration camp under the Nazis just for being gay. He had to wear the pink triangle on his prisoner's clothing.
For decades raids at queer places were common. Do not forget the AIDS crisis in the 80-ies and early 90-ies, when so many people were stigmatized, and died alone without the simple right for their partners to accompany them in hospital.
So many people have suffered for decades, been ostracized, had to deny themselves and hide. How can I forget that?
The freedoms that these generations before us fought for must be defended.

Can you share important locations in Berlin for you, places to feel connected?

NB: The best places in Berlin are the vast open spaces, squares and large parks where urban society meets: Tempelhofer Feld and Tiergarten, Humboldthain and Mont Klamott.
Definitely the best place to party would be
Berghain or Schwuz.
Do not forget Roses in Kreuzberg and Capture Bar in Friedrichshain.