🎶 Hey Kölle, do bes e Jeföhl 🎶 Kein Kölsch für Nazis 🎶
This past weekend, I experienced something truly remarkable, the largest demonstration I have ever seen in my lifetime! Hundreds of thousands of people filled the streets of Cologne, united by a shared purpose: to stand against fascism and the far-right AfD. It was a powerful and inspiring moment, one that will stay with me forever.
What made this demonstration so extraordinary wasn’t just its size but the incredible diversity of people who came together. Everybody: Families, young people, seniors, activists, artists, politicians and professionals, all standing shoulder to shoulder to reject hate and division. It was a vivid reminder of Cologne’s vibrant spirit and the collective power of a community that refuses to tolerate the Nazi ideology promoted by the AfD.
The event was made even more impactful by the participation of some of Cologne’s most beloved musicians and actors. Their performances were more than entertainment; they were declarations of solidarity and resistance. Hearing their voices amplified the message of the day: there is no place for hate, racism, or fascism in Cologne, or anywhere else.
But as uplifting as the demonstration was, it also underscored the serious challenges we face. The fact that so many people needed to gather to oppose the AfD is a stark reminder of the dangerous rise of far-right ideologies, misinformation and hate in our society. Their rhetoric and policies seek to divide us, to undermine democracy, and to roll back decades of progress toward equality and inclusion. The fight against them is far from over, and this demonstration was a call to action for all of us to remain vigilant and engaged.
Despite these challenges, the overwhelming turnout filled me with hope. It proved that the majority of people in Cologne, and across Germany, reject hate and embrace diversity! It showed that when we come together, we can send a powerful message to those who seek to divide us: we will not stand by and let it happen.
One of the most moving moments of the day was hearing personal stories from speakers who have been directly affected by far-right violence and discrimination. Their courage in sharing their experiences reinforced the urgency of our fight against fascism. This is not just a political issue, it’s a human one! It’s about protecting the rights, dignity, and safety of everyone in our community.
As I reflect on this historic day, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. Demonstrations like this are not just about opposition; they are about affirming the values we stand for, equality, democracy, and unity. They are a reminder that change is possible when people come together with a shared vision for a better future.
To anyone reading this, I encourage you to be part of this movement. Whether by attending demonstrations, having conversations, or voting for leaders who represent these values, every action matters. Cologne showed the world that when we stand together, we are stronger than hate!
This demonstration was a celebration of what makes our community strong and resilient. Let’s carry this spirit forward, continuing to reject fascism and the far-right ideology of the Nazi-AfD idiotic bullies, and building a future where everyone is respected, valued, and included. Together, we can protect and strengthen the democratic values that unite us.