Political failure: Merz's statements scare women and queer people away!

Political failure: Merz's statements scare women and queer people away!

In Cologne, a recent comment by Friedrich Merz is causing heated debates and outrage. He raised concerns about a “problem in the cityscape,” but was referring to people and suggested in a blunt tone that people should “ask their daughters.” This has sparked numerous protests as it is seen as hurtful, discriminatory and racist. The legitimate response of many women and queer people is clear: they do not want to be used by such outdated ideas to generate populist headlines.

The initiatives “Augsburg against the right”, the CSD Augsburg and other groups such as “Stop femicide” and the Youth Forum are therefore calling for a clear change. They criticize that Merz's statements distract from the real problems in our society. Instead of dealing with crucial issues such as racism, sexism, patriarchal violence and social injustice, serious social questions are sidelined. These organizations are calling for a demonstration to advocate for harmonious coexistence in the city in a solidarity and diverse way.

Health inequalities and discrimination

But what does this have to do with health? Much. Because health inequality is strongly influenced by social determinants. According to a study examining discrimination and racism, social background is crucial for access to resources such as health care, education and work. In Germany it is clear that people who experience discrimination often suffer from health disadvantages. This connection becomes particularly clear in times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Research shows that migrants often initially have good health, but then suffers during and after migration. The mental health of those affected is particularly badly affected. Discrimination can be direct or structural and often leads to unequal treatment. Such social inequalities have been proven to increase a society's health problems, which is reflected in the rates of chronic diseases in certain population groups.

Racism and its social effects

The topics of discrimination and racism contribute significantly to health disadvantages, which is also visible in the debate about social conditions. The results show that racism not only causes individual pain, but also undermines social structures. In Germany it is important to recognize that racism and inequality are historical phenomena that can no longer be ignored in public discourse. A comprehensive consideration of these issues must be incorporated into political discussions and the development of solutions.

Local initiatives such as those mentioned above demand that politicians not focus on misleading headlines, but rather address the pressing problems. It is time to stand up for the safety and well-being of all people instead of promoting a skewed social perception. Racism, violence and hate speech must be confronted together - not only on the streets, but also in the institutions that determine people's daily lives.

For further insights into the matter, the findings of PMC and Critical medicine of enormous importance. Here the discrepancy between social disadvantage and health care becomes visible and exposes the grievances that urgently need to be addressed.