Racism in Germany is undeniable. Racist attacks happen daily in
different forms both physically and verbally. Foreigners
particularly people of African descend are abused by racists openly
in public places. Africans have been killed on German streets by
German racists. In most cases, witnesses have kept quiet and never
attempted to help the victim or call for help. The 19th
Africa Festival Wuerzburg made a remarkable effort to bring the
issue of racism to the limelight and motivate the public to actively
participate in the fight against racism. As part of the opening
ceremony, 1000 balloons, each attached to a free entry ticket to the
festival were released to float. The tickets carry information about
the event and urge the finder to stand against racism. The finder is
also cordially invited to attend the festival and enjoy a series of
cultural attractions. The event marked the first day of the festival
as a day against racism.
A
discussion forum was organized with Afro-Germans including the
activist and music artist Ade (Bantu) Odukoya on the panel. The
discussion topic titled “Foreigners at home - Life as an
Afro-German” gave an insight into the feelings of Afro-Germans in
relation to their dual cultural heritage.
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