Mayor justifies herself against allegations of neglect in addressing anti-Semitic incidents
In the small town of Langenau, located near Ulm, a series of antisemitic protests have been taking place in front of the Martinskirche. The mayor, Daria Henning, has been actively addressing this issue, positioning the city against such acts and taking various measures to counter them.
The German-Israeli Society Ulm/Neu-Ulm (DIG) has criticized the city council and Mayor Henning for being too hesitant in their approach to the issue. However, Mayor Henning has rejected these accusations, assuring the DIG that the city reacts with all legal determination, including accepting judicial confrontations.
To prevent escalation and ensure public order, the city has increased police presence during protests. Local authorities have also coordinated with law enforcement to investigate instances where antisemitic expressions or hate speech have crossed legal boundaries, potentially prosecuting offenders under Germany’s strict laws against hate speech, Holocaust denial, and incitement.
If the protests violate public assembly laws or constitute hate crimes, city prosecutors may seek injunctions or restraining orders to limit or ban these protests at sensitive locations, particularly when they target religious communities or memorial sites.
The city council and local government have publicly condemned the antisemitic protests, reinforcing a zero-tolerance stance and working with Jewish organizations to support affected communities. Future plans include dialogue through various exhibitions and panel discussions on the topic.
The situation in front of the Martinskirche is regularly reassessed together with the police. Crisis talks, police investigations, and the celebration of the second candle of the Chanukkah menorah have taken place in Langenau.
It is important to note that antisemitic speech and actions are criminal offenses under German law, particularly sections of the Strafgesetzbuch (German Criminal Code) relating to hate speech (§130 StGB – incitement to hatred). The city’s actions involve collaboration with federal and state authorities to ensure legal measures are effectively applied.
The repeated antisemitic protests in Langenau have brought unwanted attention to the small town nationwide. However, the city's proactive approach and commitment to countering hate speech demonstrate its dedication to maintaining a peaceful and inclusive community.
Mayor Henning has offered a meeting with the German-Israeli Society and the city council to discuss the situation further. The protesters, who have been gathering in support of Palestine, have been prohibited from demonstrating in front of the Martinskirche, as per a general decree issued by Mayor Henning. Another event with 50 participants is announced for the coming Sunday, but it will take place outside the area in front of the church, as per the decree.
As the situation continues to unfold, the city of Langenau remains committed to upholding the rule of law and promoting understanding and respect among its diverse population.
The city council, in collaboration with Mayor Henning, is actively seeking to apply stricter policies-and-legislation aimed at curbing the antisemitic protests taking place in Langenau, particularly focusing on hate speech and incitement as outlined in Germany's Strafgesetzbuch (Section 130). The city authorities are also considering politics-and-legislation reforms, such as dialogue through exhibitions and panel discussions, to reinforce their general-news stance against hate crimes and support affected communities. Local authorities are working diligently to ensure crime-and-justice proceedings are initiated against offenders who cross legal boundaries, as part of their commitment to maintaining a peaceful and inclusive community.
