Berlin police chief Barbara Slowik has advised Jews and homosexuals to be particularly careful in certain areas of the capital. In principle, there are no so-called no-go areas, i.e. areas that are too dangerous to enter.
“However, there are areas – and we have to be honest at this point – where I would advise people who wear a yarmulke or are openly gay or lesbian to be more attentive,” Slowik told the Berliner Zeitung.
Slowik went on to say that she didn’t want to “defame” any particular group of people as perpetrators. At the same time, she explained: “Unfortunately, there are certain neighborhoods in which the majority of people of Arab origin live who also have sympathies for terrorist groups. Open anti-Semitism is expressed there against people of Jewish faith and origin.”
Slowik emphasized: “Fortunately, violent crimes against Jewish people are low, although each crime is without question one too many. I can still understand that fear and worry remain.”
People from the Jewish-Israeli community in Berlin would notice the total number of anti-Semitic crimes. Since October 7, 2023, the police have initiated over 6,200 investigations into anti-Semitism and incitement. This understandably increases the fear within the community of becoming the target of an attack.
Police chief’s statements. There have been moments where I’ve felt uncomfortable expressing my identity in public spaces, and I’ve noticed a shift in the attitudes of some individuals towards the Jewish community. It’s disheartening to see this trend, especially in a city known for its history of embracing diversity.
Guest 1:
Interviewer: Hello, and welcome to our show. How can you react to the statements made by the Berlin police chief Barbara Slowik regarding the safety of Jews and homosexuals in certain areas of the city?
Guest 1: I find these statements to be quite concerning, as it seems like the police are implying that certain neighborhoods are off-limits for certain groups of people based on their identity. As a city, we should strive for inclusivity and equality, and these comments go against that principle.
Interviewer: Do you think that the police chief’s comments could lead to further stigmatization of these communities or increase their vulnerability?
Guest 1: Absolutely, it’s not only stigmatizing but also sends the message that certain areas are unsafe for these groups. This could potentially lead to further isolation and marginalization of these communities, making them more vulnerable to attacks or discrimination.
Guest 2:
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us as well. As a resident of Berlin, how do you react to the police chief’s advice for individuals who identify as Jewish or LGBTQ+?
Guest 2: I think it’s important to acknowledge the reality that certain neighborhoods in Berlin have higher rates of anti-Semitic and homophobic violence. However, rather than singling out specific groups, the police should focus on addressing the root causes of these issues holistically, such as improving education and providing better resources for integration.
Interviewer: Do you believe that the police chief’s comments were intended to raise awareness about these issues or could they be seen as promoting fear and division?
Guest 2: I believe that the police chief’s intentions were likely to raise awareness, but her choice of words could have been more sensitive. Instead of naming specific groups, she could have focused on promoting tolerance and understanding across all communities. This would have sent a more positive message overall.
Interviewer: As someone from the Jewish-Israeli community in Berlin, how have you experienced the prevalence of anti-Semitic crimes in your day-to-day life?
Guest 1: I’ve certainly experienced an increased sense of unease since the
