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Ricarda Lang, born on January 17, 1994, has rapidly emerged as a prominent figure in German politics. Her journey from a young activist to the co-leader of the Alliance 90/The Greens reflects her passion for social justice, environmental advocacy, and her unyielding commitment to her principles.
Early Life and Education
Ricarda Lang’s upbringing was marked by her mother’s role as a social worker at a women’s shelter and her father, the renowned sculptor Eckhart Dietz. After graduating from the Hölderlin-Gymnasium Nürtingen in 2012, Lang embarked on her academic journey. She initially pursued a degree in law at Heidelberg University, later continuing her studies at the Humboldt University of Berlin. While her academic path didn’t culminate in a degree, it laid the foundation for her future career in politics.
Early Political Engagement
Ricarda Lang’s political journey began in 2012 when she joined the Green Youth at the age of 18. Over the years, her commitment to the Green movement deepened. She served as a speaker for the Campus Greens, the Greens’ student association, from 2014 to 2015. Her dedication led to her membership in the district executive of the Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg Greens from 2015 to 2016.
Ricarda Lang’s ascent in the political arena was marked by her election as an assessor on the federal board of the Green Youth in October 2015. Her rise continued, and in October 2017, she was elected co-spokesperson at the federal congress. In November 2019, she reached new heights, being elected deputy chairwoman of the Greens and spokesperson for women’s policy. Her positions highlighted her commitment to advocating for social justice and gender equality.
In 2021, Ricarda Lang made a significant move into national politics by successfully running for a seat in the Bundestag during the German federal elections. Her election was historic, as she became the first openly bisexual member of the Bundestag. She represents Baden-Württemberg and is a member of the Committee for Family, Seniors, Women, and Youth, as well as a deputy member of the Committee for Labor and Social Affairs.
In January 2022, Ricarda Lang achieved another milestone in her career. She was elected as the co-leader of the Alliance 90/The Greens, alongside Omid Nouripour, succeeding Annalena Baerbock and Robert Habeck. Her leadership role solidified her influence in shaping the party’s direction and policies.
Ricarda Lang is known for her progressive political positions, advocating for social justice, climate policy, feminism, body positivity, and queer politics. She emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic issues rather than individual consumption to combat climate change. Lang calls for a shift away from coal and ending subsidies to environmentally damaging industries.
Her political goals include increasing Hartz IV payments, improving caregivers’ wages, limiting precarious employment, and providing more support for rural areas. Lang supports the admission of climate refugees, even proposing EU citizenship for residents of Pacific island nations threatened by rising sea levels.
In the face of international crises, such as the Russian incursion into Ukraine, Lang has advocated for arms deliveries to support Ukraine’s defense.
What is Ricarda Lang Suffering From?
As of the time of this publication, there are no reports or indications of any illness affecting Ricarda Lang.
Personal Life
Beyond politics, Ricarda Lang has a personal life that includes living in Berlin since 2014. She made history as the first openly bisexual Bundestag member upon her election in 2021. Her engagement to mathematician Florian Wilsch in March 2023 adds another chapter to her life story.
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