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Protest in Halle: We are the cityscape” against Merz's questionable statements
In Halle (Saale) 40 people protested against CDU leader Merz's controversial statements about migrants. The flash mob showed solidarity and diversity.
Protest in Halle: We are the cityscape” against Merz's questionable statements
Last Saturday, around 40 people gathered at the Leipzig Tower in Halle (Saale) for a flash mob organized by the State Network of Migrant Organizations Saxony-Anhalt (LAMSA). The reason for this action was a controversial statement by Friedrich Merz, the CDU party leader, who addressed a “problem in the cityscape” regarding people with a migration background. Participation in this campaign should make it clear that these people are an integral part of society and simply belong to it. “We are the cityscape,” said the participants’ colorful posters, pointing out the demonstrative nature of the event.
LAMSA Chairman Mamad Mohamad explained that the action took place without speeches in order to create powerful images. He emphasized the urgency of expression and solidarity for the migrant community. Political representatives were also present during the action, including city councilor Fabian Borggrefe and state parliament members Hendrik Lange (Left) and Wolfgang Aldag (Greens). Mohamad said that Merz's statements were emotionally hurtful and reinforced the feeling that migrants are not perceived as part of society.
Social reactions
Merz's statements not only sparked mixed feelings among refugee organizations, but also caused excitement within the political landscape. While SPD leader Saskia Esken noted that Merz's views are right-wing populist, Left Party leader Jan van Aken made it clear that he sees the proposal as "disgusting racism." Merz advocates limiting dual citizenship to exceptional cases and would like to create the possibility of revoking the citizenship of delinquent dual nationals. According to Esken, such demands promote the formation of “second-class citizens” and could potentially create a two-class society in Germany.
The President of the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW), Marcel Fratzscher, also expressed concerns about the possible consequences of this radicalization. These statements correlate with a broader discussion about the CDU's decisions to tighten asylum policy. For example, the CSU is planning a “security plan” that calls for a general rejection of those seeking protection at the borders. Experts, however, warn that such proposals would violate international and European law norms.
Looking into the future
The protest at the Leipzig Tower was perceived as a preventive measure against social division. LAMSA plans to consider steps to amplify migrant voices, possibly by organizing a larger rally. Hendrik Lange is demanding an apology from Merz in order to recognize the hurt feelings of people with a migrant background.
The dialogue around migration and human rights will continue to be a hot topic, especially in the coming months. The political landscape in Germany is changing, and the voices of civil society will play an increasingly central role in the debate. How events will develop remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: diversity is a part of German society that needs to be protected and celebrated.