Colorful instead of brown: Hanover shows its flag against the AfD congress!

Colorful instead of brown: Hanover shows its flag against the AfD congress!

Something is happening in Hanover: On Saturday, June 21, 2025, people will gather under the motto “Our rainbow remains colorful!” on Hannah-Arendt-Platz. The event, organized by a broad coalition including trade unions, churches, parties and various initiatives, starts at 9:00 a.m. A strong signal from civil society should be sent, especially in response to the AfD's “Child Protection Congress” taking place at the same time in the Lower Saxony state parliament.

The AfD congress, which will, among other things, address topics such as “early sexualization” and “gender propaganda”, has led to widespread protests. Critics, including the Child Protection Association and the Queer Network Lower Saxony, accuse the party of undermining education and prevention with its rhetoric. Simon Kopelke from the Child Protection Association clearly distances himself from the AfD's positions and advocates for scientifically based sex education that strengthens all children, including queer young people.

A strong signal against right-wing extremism

It is not the first time that large numbers of people have taken to the streets in Hanover to protest against right-wing extremist slogans and anti-feminist positions. According to Spiegel, hundreds of thousands have already taken part in similar events in the past.

Organizers of the counter-demonstration are determined to send a positive message. Hanover is often described as colorful, democratic and cosmopolitan - and it is precisely these values ​​that will be symbolically defended on June 21st. The superintendent of the Hanover church district, Dr. Christian Brouwer will appear as one of the central speakers and contribute to the event with his speeches.

The meeting should not only show a clear opposing position to the AfD, but also celebrate the diversity and tolerance that Hanover stands for. It is important that voices for an open and inclusive society are heard.

Counter-demonstrations also from other groups

The commitment extends beyond the churches and trade unions: the Green City Association has also registered a counter-demonstration against the AfD congress, with an expected number of participants in the mid-three-digit range. “We clearly distance ourselves from the dangerous ideas of the AfD,” wrote a member of the city association. The daily event promises to send a sign of unity against right-wing extremist views and to show the colorful side of the city.

Wherever the journey leads, one thing is certain: on June 21st, Hannah-Arendt-Platz will be the scene for civil courage and a creative protest that highlights the values ​​of respect and tolerance. While the AfD holds its conference, the people in the city will stand up for a cosmopolitan and diverse Hannover - and this will once again show why the city is a home for many.