Tuesday, April 30
Berlin threatens low “intervention threshold” ahead of May Day protests
The Berlin authorities have been talking up the prospect of police violence ahead of the large scale Revolutionary May 1st demonstration planned for tomorrow evening, with particular attention being paid to any potential display of solidarity between left wing demonstrators and those wanting to oppose the war in Gaza.
In remarks to the Berlin House of Representatives, Interior Senator Iris Spranger (SPD) seemed to criticise the fact that the demonstration would pass through Neukölln, a route she believed was “consciously chosen to attract as many people as possible.” Furthermore, she said, that there would be a low “intervention threshold” for police commenting that “Those who want to bring violence and hatred onto the streets of our city will be met will consistent intervention and targeted action.”
These thoughts were echoed by the Berlin police chief, Barbara Slowik, who said that antisemitic and anti-Israeli chants would not be tolerated. Unlike in previous years, she said, police will not wait until the demonstration is over, but would take “immediate” measures. In the past few months, Berlin has banned slogans such as “From the River to the Sea” or referring to Israel’s actions in Gaza as a genocide.
On their call to action, the organisers of the Revolutionary May 1 demonstration emphasise international solidarity. “From Ukraine, to Yemen and Congo, to Kurdistan and Palestine… Germany earns billions from arms deliveries… Let’s take to the streets on May 1st in solidarity with the oppressed and exploited!”
The events will begin tomorrow at 16:30 at Südstern with a concert, while the demonstration will officially begin at 18:00.
