May Day: Thousands H IT THE STREETS IN KREUZBERG
Thousands of protesters stormed the streets of Kreuzberg whilst participating in May's rallies. - Ten thousand protesters walk through Kreuzberg during the May rally
In Berlin-Kreuzberg and Neukölln, thousands marched in the annual "Revolutionary 1st of May Demonstration." Police estimated around 10,000 participants. Iris Spranger (SPD) praised the police's deployment concept after minimal incidents were reported. Slogans of support for Palestine echoed, along with chants against fascism, repression, and racism. Banners read "War on War."
Summer in Görlitzer Park
With the warm weather, around 18,000 people gathered in Görlitzer Park. Protests began against the Senate’s plans to fence off the park notorious for crime and drugs and close it at night. A "Rave against the Fence" took place, with approximately 1,800 people at a satirical demonstration in Grunewald and 6,500 at a DGB event.
- Revolutionary 1st of May Demonstration
- Kreuzberg
- Police
- Berlin
- Neukölln
- Görlitzer Park
- Iris Spranger
- SPD
- Palestine
The Roots of the Revolution
The Revolutionary May Day demonstration in Berlin-Kreuzberg traces back to 1987, following an incident called the Kiezaufstand, a violent confrontation between police and residents after a peaceful street festival [2][4]. Ever since, these demonstrations have championed anti-capitalism and social change.
A Growing Movement
In recent years, the protests have expanded and diversified, being part of a broader tradition of May Day demonstrations across Berlin, including in Neukölln and Friedrichshain [2]. However, Neukölln isn't traditionally a primary site for these demonstrations, as Kreuzberg remains at the forefront.
Görlitzer Park's Fight
In Görlitzer Park, the "Free Görli – Rave against the Fence" event takes place to protest the proposed construction of a fence through the park [2]. This event is a part of the broader May Day celebrations but focuses on local issues.
The Crowd Counts
Over the years, these demonstrations have drawn substantial crowds. For the 2025 event, over 5,000 police are anticipated to attend, indicating the massive size and significance of these gatherings [1]. Although specific participation numbers for recent years aren't always available in available information.
Longstanding Symbol of Activism
The Revolutionary May Day demonstration remains an essential part of Berlin's activism history, reflecting ongoing struggles between left-wing movements and the government, along with local community concerns.
The Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, as politics and general news continue to unfold. In a stark contrast, the Revolutionary 1st of May Demonstration in Berlin-Kreuzberg, traceable back to 1987, amplifies the cries for anti-capitalism and social change. Protests in Görlitzer Park, stemming from the Senate’s plans to fence off the park, echo these sentiments, albeit focusing on local issues. Iris Spranger (SPD), praising the police’s deployment concept in the annual Kreuzberg demonstration, reminds us that law enforcement plays a crucial role in ensuring these events remain peaceful.
