Minister Merz's Minister Advocates for a Tight Restriction: "Keep Out!"
In a significant move, the Merz government has taken a firm stance against the use of gender-sensitive or "gender" language in official texts. This decision, supported by leading members of the government, views such language as an "ideological" imposition on language culture, leading to formal prohibitions on its use in government communications.
The ban, implemented by Culture State Minister Wolfram Weimer, is particularly noticeable in the Chancellery's official correspondence. Weimer has opted for traditional spelling rules, rejecting ideological interventions that might alter linguistic norms. This decision has been applauded by CSU General Secretary Martin Huber, who considers Bavaria a role model for using German spelling instead of gender asterisks and fantasy symbols.
Weimer's decision follows his concern for preserving German linguistic culture. He believes that willful interventions through gendering damage the beauty of the language. Huber shares this sentiment, viewing the German language as a binding medium, not a playing field for ideologies.
The ban on gender-sensitive language in the Chancellery is not a restriction on personal expression. Weimer emphasizes that everyone can express themselves privately as they wish. In fact, Weimer greets addressees in the Chancellery with "very dear ladies and gentlemen."
This position associates gender-sensitive language initiatives with political or ideological motives, which the Merz government rejects. Weimer's decision sets a point in the debate on language use, reflecting a rejection of what they consider language ideology in formal government usage.
Interestingly, within Merz's party, there is some internal division or adjustment regarding terminology related to gender and sexual diversity. However, the government has taken steps that counter progressive language use, as seen in the Chancellery's official correspondence.
Bavaria has already enforced a general ban on gender-sensitive language in authorities, as led by Minister President Markus Söder and his cabinet. This ban has been in place for some time, and Weimer's decision in the Chancellery follows suit.
In conclusion, the Merz government's stance towards gender-sensitive language is restrictive and oppositional, framing it as an "ideological" imposition on language culture, leading to formal prohibitions on its use in official government texts. Yet, it is essential to note that this does not restrict personal expression or individual choices.
The Merz government's decision to ban gender-sensitive language in official texts is part of their policy-and-legislation, reflecting a stance against ideological influences in the politics of language use. This move, significantly noticeable in the Chancellery's official correspondence, has been supported by leading members like Culture State Minister Wolfram Weimer and CSU General Secretary Martin Huber, who view it as a means to preserve traditional German linguistic culture.
