+++UPDATE+++ Even though the pandemic-related restrictions concerning the right of assembly are slowly being relaxed, and public life is gradually returning, the organizers of ONK 2020 are adhering to the online version of this year’s festival; not least because of the ever virulent and necessary protection against infection. Live events in line with the current regulations on infection protection, however, should be possible.
Thus, the festival “Offenes Neukölln” 2020 will once again offer all Neukölln residents the opportunity to set a signal of solidarity with those affected by the series of right-wing extremist assaults. The organizers call for participation.
Background
The series of assaults is directed against those involved in civil society who have been campaigning for refugees and against racism and right-wing extremism for years. The Mobile Beratung gegen Rechtsextremismus Berlin (MBR) (Mobile Beratung gegen Rechtsextremismus Berlin – MBR) offers an overview of the events, which started in 2016 with at least 55 incidents to date. Those affected by the series of attacks have strongly criticized the police investigation efforts and continue to do so. Among other things, a petition (Petition) with 25,679 signatures was submitted, advocating the establishment of an investigative committee. In February, a first interim report (Zwischenbericht) of the investigating authorities was presented. The reaction to the report was published in an article (Artikel) in the Berlin-based daily newspaper Der Tagesspiegel.
ONK 2020
This year, the festival is once again organized on a voluntary basis by the alliance Bündnis Neukölln, a broad alliance of organizations, initiatives, unions, political parties, religious communities and many individuals.
The call for participation states:
With the festival, as in the previous three years, we wish to set a clear and visible sign once again: for an open and solidary Neukölln, against discrimination and right-wing violence, for solidarity with the victims of right-wing attacks, and for a society that is diverse and open to all people who live here. So that Neukölln remains a place where we all enjoy living and can feel at home!
Anyone who wishes to organize readings, music or discussion events to be stremed can register with the organizers using this form (Formular) until May 25. Two formats are possible within the festival: Live streams of events with online audience, and discussion events via video chat. For detailed questions reagrding the implementation and further information, please contact the organizers (Veranstalter_innen)!
The organizers (Veranstalter_innen) explicitly refer to the possibility to include all analogous events and actions in their calendar. At the beginning of June, the organizers will also compile an overview of all current options and restrictions and all regulations that must be considered due to the pandemic.
UPDATE +++ The whole programm is online now! Check facebook and the site of Bündis Neukölln for further information!
All information is subject to change. For current information on twitter use the hashtags: #ONK2020 #Neukölln