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Rainbow staircase repainted in German flag colours sparks far-right controversy

A student-led symbol of queer acceptance becomes a political battleground. Local leaders condemn the act as a nationalist attack on diversity.

The image shows a group of students marching in Berlin, holding a banner that reads "Students for...
The image shows a group of students marching in Berlin, holding a banner that reads "Students for Future". The banner is brightly colored and stands out against the backdrop of the buildings, trees, and sky.

Rainbow staircase repainted in German flag colours sparks far-right controversy

In early February, Junge Freiheit reported that a Green Party politician had expressed outrage after unknown individuals repainted a rainbow-colored staircase in the national colors of Germany. "Painting over a rainbow staircase overnight in black, red, and gold is a clear far-right statement against diversity, queer people, and a colorful society—one that promotes nationalism," Verena Verspohl, chair of the party's faction in Arnsberg's city council, fumed on Instagram.

The rainbow staircase itself is a project of a nearby school—allegedly at the students' request. But is that really the case, or are the young people being indoctrinated by a headmistress who brings her party membership into the classroom? Junge Freiheit investigated on the ground.

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