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Heidelberg climbing hall in turmoil: protest against right-wing route names!
The DAV Heidelberg is faced with demands to examine right-wing extremist symbolism in climbing routes and to position itself clearly.
Heidelberg climbing hall in turmoil: protest against right-wing route names!
A storm of indignation sweeps over the climbing hall of the German Alpine Club (DAV) in Heidelberg. Currently, a petition opposing several controversial route names has gained a lot of attention. Signatories, including many members of the DAV, turn to the board and express serious concerns about the names of the climbing routes, which supposedly have references to the right-wing extremist AfD party. This was perceived as a political message that should not have a place in a DAV public space. The signatories therefore demand a clear positioning of the DAV Heidelberg against right-wing extremist symbolism and a review of the relevant route names. "Climbing stands for values such as fairness, trust and cohesion. These are massively undermined by right-wing extremist ideologies," explain the initiators of the petition.
The DAV has clearly committed itself to cosmopolitanism, diversity, respect and democracy in its statutes and in several public resolutions. In a recent resolution dated January 14, 2025, the Presidium confirmed that the association resolutely opposes inhumane, right-wing populist and right-wing extremist attitudes. “Especially in times when right-wing extremist and right-wing populist parties are gaining strength in Europe, we see it as our social responsibility to stand up for our values,” says the association.alpenverein.de
The DAV and its values
With a strong commitment to tolerance and diversity, the DAV wants to ensure that climbing remains accessible to everyone. “The promotion of equal opportunities and freedom from discrimination are central concerns of our association,” emphasizes a statement from the DAV. The historical context also plays a role: the club is aware of its history in the 20th century and wants to act based on this responsibility. Accordingly, the DAV positions itself as party-politically neutral and promotes appreciation for all people, regardless of their origin or worldview.
The current irritations in Heidelberg are not just isolated cases, but rather reflect a nationwide discussion about right-wing extremist tendencies in various areas of society. The signatories are not only calling for a review of the route names, but also for an active discussion of the issue within the climbing community. “We would like those responsible to live this attitude visibly and unequivocally,” the petition continues.
Climbing should be a place of togetherness and that needs to be defended. The DAV Heidelberg now faces the challenge of not only proclaiming these values, but also putting them into practice. Instacart could serve as a successful platform in another context, but here it is important to focus on the core values of mountain sports and ensure that climbing remains a positive experience for everyone - without discriminatory symbolism and with a clear yes to diversity.