Pridemerch by Team Behinderte – Visibility, Self-Determination, and True Pride
We are the "Team Behinderte" of Queer Cities e.V. and Pridemerch.de is our passion project. Since summer 2022, we have been building an online shop for Pride and Rainbow merch that is 100% authentic: From the community, for the community.
But we sell more than just Pride flags and buttons. We create opportunities. Our goal is to offer queer people with disabilities – and all other people with disabilities – a genuine professional alternative to traditional sheltered workshops. We want to build an inclusive business that thrives in the primary labor market, creates fair jobs, and enables social participation.
By Our Own Efforts: Why We Need Your Support
This project is ambitious and unique: We receive no public funding. Pridemerch.de is built entirely through our own efforts and the dedication of Queer Cities e.V. As a non-profit association, we work in a people-oriented rather than profit-oriented way, so we rely on the sale of our products and on donations. Every purchase and every euro helps us secure our passion project and empower people with independence.
The Story Behind It: Thorsten's Journey
The story of our initiator Thorsten Höller (49) shows how important this independence is. After more than 30 years in sheltered workshops, he made a decision: "I definitely don't want to go back." Through an internship at the Bremen donation station of Queer Cities e.V., he found the courage and the opportunity to pursue new paths.
Today, Thorsten works in an outsourced workplace and daily proves the potential in people when they are given the right conditions. His vision drives us: to create a working environment that is not pedagogically supervised, but economically productive and inclusive.
Our Special Delivery Concept: Personal Encounters by Public Transport
We are not an ordinary online mail-order business. Wherever possible, we prioritize personal contact. In Bremen and the surrounding area – extending to Wilhelmshaven, Verden, Bremerhaven, and Hamburg – we often deliver orders in person.
We consistently use public transportation (ÖPNV). This is not only sustainable but also serves an important social purpose: We become visible.
When our team – people with disabilities – personally hands over the goods, we break down prejudices. We show that we are capable and contribute our part. These encounters at the doorstep are often a highlight for our customers and greatly strengthen our team's self-esteem. We are not just part of the process; we shape it.
Our Models: Real People, Real Diversity
In our shop, you won't find professional agency models. We deliberately use amateur models to portray the wonderful diversity of our community. We want everyone to feel represented – regardless of age, gender, or background. Pridemerch is as colorful as real life. As colorful as our CSDs.
A Strong Network
We see ourselves as partners of the community. Therefore, we cooperate closely with CSD associations and organizations throughout Germany and Poland. A portion of the proceeds from partner products flows directly back to these associations.
Our current partners are:
Together, we prove: Inclusion is not a theoretical idea, but achievable practice. Support us in continuing to build this vision.
Do you want to get involved?
Whether as part of our team, as a partner, as a model, or as a supporter – we welcome everyone who wants to work with us for a more inclusive, colorful world.
Contact us – we look forward to hearing from you!
