The WELCOMING OUT initiative was launched in June 2022 in Hamburg to support fear-free coming out for queer individuals by making acceptance and openness visible in society. The initiative emerged from the realization that, although many people hold positive attitudes toward queer individuals, they often do not express this openly, leaving queer people uncertain and hesitant to come out. To address this, the initiative introduced a symbol featuring two embracing figures, which is used as buttons, digital icons, or email signatures to convey the message: “Queer people can safely come out with me.” Supported by companies such as Beiersdorf, Meta, and H&M, as well as public figures like Hape Kerkeling and Tupoka Ogette, WELCOMING OUT raises awareness through social media and provides diversity training for organizations, all with the aim of fostering a more inclusive society. Read more: https://welcoming-out.com

City Profile: Hamburgo