Friedman denounces xenophobia: Applause for strong democracy speech!

Friedman denounces xenophobia: Applause for strong democracy speech!

What a crowd in the beach pavilion on the Schwerin lakeshore! The 20th Johannes Stelling Prize was awarded on October 28th, and many guests flocked to listen to the keynote speech by publicist Michel Friedman. Among those present were Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig and SPD parliamentary group leader Julian Barlen, who not only opened the event but also underlined its importance in the fight against xenophobia and extremism. The event, well secured by civilian police and patrol cars, took place in the context of the previous controversy surrounding Friedman's disinvitation from a literary house in Klütz, which caused a lot of excitement.

This was not just a prize being awarded, but rather a symbol of social cohesion. The main prize went to Silvio Witt, the former mayor of Neubrandenburg, whose commitment to democracy and against racism was honored. Friedman spoke around 5:35 p.m., presenting his views clearly and provocatively. In his speech he quoted: “The worst democracy is better than the best dictatorship” and addressed directly the opponents of democracy, especially the AfD. He emphasized the importance of the political culture of debate and warned against the danger to it through indifference.

A call for civil courage

Friedman's speech was characterized by passionate commitment to experienced values. He called for “people with an attitude instead of just an opinion” and concluded his appeal with the important request for “respect for people,” which the audience honored with applause and a standing ovation. His critical stance towards the AfD, which he described as a “party of hate”, underlined the urgency of his concern to counter social extremism. This call is also echoed in the current efforts of the federal government, which aims to combat the increase in hatred and extremist violence with the strategy “Together for democracy and against extremism”. This strategy aims to promote democratic coexistence and strengthen a diverse society, while at the same time tackling racism, anti-Semitism and other forms of misanthropy.

It was more than just a lovely evening; It was an urgent call for civil courage at a time when the challenges to our democracy are greater than ever. Of all people, Müller, the mayor of Klütz, had to resign after the debate that accompanied Friedman's disinvitation - an example of the waves that such discussions can create. It is becoming increasingly clear that dialogue is essential, and Friedman, whose own family history links him to the Holocaust, speaks like no other about what is at stake.

A look ahead

The evening in Schwerin was a ray of hope; its international and social echo will probably accompany the debate about extremism and democracy for a long time. While politicians are trying to take preventive measures against the spread of extremist attitudes, as the federal government has also stated in its goals, the commitment of personalities like Friedman is moving into focus. The voices of reason must become louder, especially when it comes to combating hatred and prejudice.

The evening ended with a feeling of hope and determination that, despite all odds, it is possible to stand up for a vibrant democracy. The question that remains: How long can this resistance be maintained?