Protest against the scheduled AfD event in Hugenottenhalle of Neu-Isenburg
Neu-Isenburg, a city in the German state of Hesse, is set to host an AfD (Alternative für Deutschland) campaign event at the Huguenot Hall on February 1st. The city's decision to rent the facility to the controversial political party has sparked a wave of protests and a commitment from local activists to uphold democracy and diversity.
Despite the controversy, the city's actions are based on upholding democratic rules and maintaining neutral policies. Public facilities are generally available for rental under standard, non-discriminatory terms that allow individuals or organizations, including political parties and controversial groups, to hold events. This is typically under "private party" use agreements that avoid favoring or disfavoring any group based on content or viewpoint.
The city of Neu-Isenburg, like any other, must balance its role as a neutral provider of public spaces with respect for free speech and constitutional rights. Local governments usually avoid renting for commercial profit or fundraising but allow civic, cultural, educational, or social events, which can include political gatherings, if they meet facility usage rules and rental agreement conditions.
Maintaining neutrality means applying rental policies uniformly, without denying access solely because of a party’s political views, unless there is a specific legal prohibition or immediate risk. Such restrictions must be content-neutral and narrowly tailored to avoid violating free speech protections.
The city has not been shown to support or approve of the political positions of the AfD, as stated by Mayor Hagelstein. The rental of the Huguenot Hall to the AfD is legally binding for the city of Neu-Isenburg.
In light of the event, the city will conduct a follow-up and evaluation after the event to ensure the implementation adheres to the principles of the rule of law and security requirements. The evaluation will focus on the event's course and its impact on local affairs.
The planned protests underscore the resistance of many people in the region against the political orientation of the AfD. The OMAS GEGEN RECHTS and other activists are committed to setting a sign for democracy and diversity.
The city is in close communication with the police and other responsible authorities to ensure public safety during the AfD campaign event and the announced protests. The city of Neu-Isenburg will assess the impact of the event on local affairs, reiterating its commitment to upholding democratic rules and respecting the rule of law.
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