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Berlin, DE-- The President of the Bundestag, Wolfgang Thierse, addressed an estimated 500,000 gays and their supporters on the importance of fighting intolerance during a post Christopher Street Day parade rally. Joining him in celebrating gay pride was the openly gay Mayor of Berlin, Klaus Wowereit, who was enthusiastically welcomed by the crowd.

Over 60 units marched from Berlins most fashionable shopping area, the Ku'dam, in a steady drizzle. Leading the demonstration of gay rights were several area politicians, Michael Schmidt the director of CSD-Berlin, and human rights activist Ron Williams, escorting Ms. CSD-Berlin. The procession moved into the predominately gay area of the Nollendorf, through the sleek high rises of the new Potsdamer Platz, and past the Brandenburg Tor (Gate).

As the four hour long march entered the Tiergarten, Berlins central park, the sun finally broke through the rain clouds and bathed the onlookers in bright sunshine. CSD-Berlins unique custom of selling alcohol off the parade units kept the participants and onlookers alike dancing in the streets. The festival at the Victory Column provided an opportunity to honor several individuals and groups in fighting intolerance by presenting them civic awards. The audience was entertained by a variety of musical acts and a DJ well into the night. A fireworks display ended the evening.