In September 2024, PrideMerch.de – By Team Behinderte launched a call that made many hearts beat faster: "Become part of our mission! We are looking for volunteer amateur models for PrideMerch.de – By Team Behinderte." The idea? To recruit people who not only wear the bright colors of the Pride flags, but also represent the spirit of inclusion and diversity for queer people with disabilities.
It wasn't long before the first supporter came forward: Maja Tegeler, a member of the Bremen Parliament, who enthusiastically agreed and immediately made a statement with her participation.
Maja Tegeler, herself a proud transgender person, is known for her passionate commitment to the queer community and inclusion. As a member of Bremen's Parliament, she has been advocating for LGBTQ+ issues for years and supporting projects that empower and increase the visibility of queer people.
But that's not all. Maja not only supports PrideMerch.de as a volunteer amateur model, but is also involved in many other initiatives and associations: She is a member of Trans-Recht eV, which supports trans people in legal matters, and supports Christopher Street Day Bremen + Bremerhaven eV. Maja is also particularly committed to establishing a queer policy advisory board in the Bremen Senate to create long-term counseling structures and safe spaces for queer people in the region.
Regarding her support for PrideMerch.de, Maja says: "PrideMerch.de – By Team Behinderte is a wonderful project that highlights inclusion and diversity in a very special way. It's a matter close to my heart to participate and encourage others to get involved as amateur models. Showcasing the true diversity of our community is what PrideMerch.de is all about."
These words reflect what drives Maja: For her, it's not just about visibility, but about actively shaping a society that welcomes and values all people. Her commitment is encouraging and demonstrates how important it is that public figures support projects like PrideMerch.de, which advocate for the rights and visibility of queer people with disabilities.
With her commitment, Maja demonstrates the power of an inclusive, diverse environment – an environment that welcomes and celebrates people regardless of their origin, gender, or ability.
