Gender should not impact funding decisions, according to Weimer's stance.
German Culture Minister Bans Gender-Inclusive Language in Official Communications
German Culture Minister Wolfram Weimer has implemented a policy within his department that strictly prohibits the use of gender-inclusive language in official communications. This policy affects approximately 470 employees under his authority and aligns with the traditional rules of the German language, mandating the use of conventional forms such as the salutation "Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren" ("Dear Madam, dear Sir").
In an interview, Weimer expressed his belief that gender-inclusive language does not represent how the majority in Germany speak and can exacerbate social division. He stated that individuals are free to express themselves privately in any manner they prefer. This stance mirrors the guidelines of the Council for German Orthography.
This policy is part of a broader conservative approach, as several German states have also banned gender-neutral language in official communications. The strong gendered nature of the German language has prompted attempts from some groups to introduce gender-neutral or inclusive forms, such as using an asterisk or other symbols to represent non-binary and transgender identities. However, this practice has sparked controversy and resistance in official domains.
Weimer's stance contrasts with efforts by other parties and activists who advocate for more inclusive language to better represent gender diversity. However, it is clear that Weimer's policy restricts such practices within his official remit.
In other news, Weimer is currently defending Merz's flag decision and has been vocal about his opinions on political parties and their policies. He does not express any preference or judgment towards the left or the AfD parties in this context. Weimer believes that the AfD is directly linking up to a narrative of the NSDAP, which persecuted the designers and architects of the Bauhaus at the time, and is running a campaign against the Bauhaus in Saxony-Anhalt, linking it to left-wing architecture.
Weimer also considers the Left Party as the direct successor to the SED, the party of the wall builders and torturers in the GDR. He advocates for a firewall against both the AfD and the Left parties, believing that making clear the terrible, grotesque authoritarianism behind the AfD's actions will be clear to a large part of the population.
[1] Council for German Orthography: https://www.duden.de/sprache/rat-fuer-deutsche-rechtschreibung [3] Controversy over gender-neutral language in official domains: https://www.dw.com/en/germany-debates-gender-neutral-language-in-official-domains/a-51338025
- The German Culture Minister's policy on prohibiting gender-inclusive language in official communications falls under the umbrella of political, economic, and social policy, reflecting his conservative stance on language usage.
- In the realm of general-news, Weimer's stance on gender-inclusive language in official communications mirrors his strong opinions on other political issues, such as his critique of the AfD and Left Parties.
