Greta Thunberg in Mannheim: Greens warn of dangerous instrumentalization

Greta Thunberg in Mannheim: Greens warn of dangerous instrumentalization

In Mannheim it is bubbling! The Mannheim Greens show themselves "extremely critical" compared to the participation of Greta Thunberg at the upcoming rally under the motto "International solidarity with Palestine and the climate movement" on the marketplace. The speakers Tamara Beckh and Ines Joneleit warn: "Mannheim is instrumentalized here in order to present complex conflicts in a way that does not do justice to our city - a city that stands for diversity, dialogue and peaceful coexistence." The concerned voices from the political landscape emphasize that the city should not serve as a stage for such controversial topics.

The 21-year-old Swedish environmental artist Greta Thunberg will not be on stage alone. Hasan Özbay, a controversial activist of the "Fridays-for-Future movement", which has gotten in the headlines through anti-Semitic statements, will also take part in the discussion event. The Greens politicians Nina Wellenreuther and Gabi Baier emphasize the responsibility that Thunberg bears as a prominent activist: "Clear positions against hate and anti-Semitism are essential in such contexts." The critical statements of the Greens show that the upcoming event is not only an environmental event, but also a hot political iron.

The Greens in focus

The board of the Mannheim Greens plans to carefully observe the events at the rally on Friday at 6 p.m. Deputy parliamentary group leader Chris Rihm has already expressed his concerns and will articulate himself accordingly at the discussion event. The anticipation for the event is clearly clouded by the controversy around Thunberg's participation and the associated political tensions.