Vigilance in Rutenberg: Democracy alliance defends itself against aggression

Vigilance in Rutenberg: Democracy alliance defends itself against aggression

in the tranquil Rutenberg, where the Democracy Alliance Rutenberg has been actively fighting against Völkische Siedler and Reichbürger for months, a worrying trend has taken off on speed. The members of the association not only face ideological challenges, but are also exposed to physical hostility and threats. These events raise questions about how certainly committed citizens can feel in their own community.

Vandalenakte and threats

Klaus Schroeter, SPD city councilor and supporter of the Democracy alliance, reported on a terrifying incident that occurred on the night from Tuesday to Wednesday. Posters and transparent of the association as well as by individual citizens were willfully cut. In addition, club members found handwritten pieces of hand in their mailboxes, which were filled with insulting messages. The association is referred to there as "Nazi" and "hate preacher", which underlines the intensity of the attacks.

The search for explanations

Ines Lehmann-Günther, the spokeswoman for the alliance of Democracy, rates these attacks as a "renewed escalation". She shows that these attacks come completely surprisingly, especially after a number of dialogues and approaches between the club and other local groups. "We had recently had productive conversations," explains Lehmann-Günther. These attacks show that there are still forces in the community that want to sabotage this positive development.

Engagement Despite resistance

Despite the events, the alliance of Democracy remains determined to spread its message and to work for openness in society. Ines Lehmann-Günther emphasizes that one is still ready to talk, also towards those who act and spread fear out of the shadow. "We will not give up and renew or repair our posters," she says, and announces that new flyers that explain the goals of the association are already available.

Meaning for community

The incidents in Rutenberg illustrate how important it is that citizens' initiatives stand together and defend themselves against extremist ideas. The attacks on the members of the alliance of Democracy are not only attacks on individuals, but on social cohesion. The reaction of citizens and supporters shows that these events must not remain unnoticed and a strong community can also exist in times of crisis.

- Nag