25 years of the Gay Heath King: Lüneburg celebrates with cakes and queerness!

25 years of the Gay Heath King: Lüneburg celebrates with cakes and queerness!

A very special event is coming up in Lüneburg, because Dirk Ahrens is celebrating his 25 years of commitment to the Gay Heath Kings. As a former king and now “Queen Mum”, Ahrens has made a fantastic name for herself in the community. These celebrations are not only the culmination of a quarter of a century, but also a significant tribute to the development of the LGBTQ+ movement in the region. The “Queer in Lüneburg” association invites everyone to celebrate with the motto “Tunten & Torten – Time for coffee, cake & queerness” from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Paul Gerhardt store. There are not only delicious delicacies here, but also an impressive picture gallery that impressively documents the history of the Gay Heath Kings.

The idea of ​​the Gay Heath King was originally brought to life as part of an awareness campaign for HIV prevention. Thomas Adank took the initiative in 2000 to draw attention to the dangers of the virus with the “Hin und Wech” campaign. Leo I was the first king in this series - from then on, new majesties were elected every year who campaigned for the visibility of the LGBTQ+ community. Even though the office took a short break in 2013, the Gay Heidekönig soon found its form again when Luenegay e. V. took over the organization.

The development of the Gay Heath Kings

A dedicated team led by Dirk Ahrens has been leading the fortunes of this special institution since 2014. Promoting education and tolerance is the declared goal, and this is reflected in the numerous events that take place regularly. One of these institutions are the “Queer Talks” and the “Queer Church”, which offer space for exchange and community. Since 2021, the Gay Heath Kings have also been a member of the “Association of German Kings”, which has significantly expanded the opportunities to promote their activities. Thanks to the official registration of the association, funding can now also be applied for and donation receipts issued, which make it possible to plan the events sustainably.

The gay Heidekönig has not only established himself in the local area, but has also achieved fame far beyond the borders. Participation in the parade in Amelinghausen since 2017 has now become one of the highlights in the LGBTQ+ community's calendar. The lively participation underlines the growing interest and acceptance for non-heterosexual people in the region. Some notable kings have been crowned in recent years, such as Ben Rejmann in 2022 and Alex II in 2023, both of whom won their titles through online voting and broad community support.

Looking into the future

The next election of the Gay Heath King is also already in the starting blocks. On February 14, 2024, a new king will be elected in the Princes' Hall of Lüneburg Town Hall. The association calls on people to apply for the office and to actively participate in promoting acceptance and visibility in society. Every applicant has the chance to make an important contribution and become part of this colorful tradition.

With Ahrens as the driving force, the Gay Heath Kings are optimistic about the future. The 25th anniversary celebrations not only demonstrate the cohesion within the community, but also the relevance that the gay Heidekönig has for society. Lüneburg will continue to be a place where diversity is celebrated and equality is practiced, because “queerness” is much more than just a word – it is a feeling that connects.