500 Show Solidarity for Friedman in Klütz as Freedom of Speech Debate Intensifies
Around 500 people gathered in Klütz to show support for Michel Friedman after his controversial exclusion from the Hannah Arendt Week 2026. The event sparked a lively discussion about freedom of speech and artistic freedom.
Friedman, a prominent Jewish intellectual, was initially invited to the event by Oliver Hintz, the academic director of the Uwe Johnson Literaturhaus in Klütz. However, under pressure from Mayor Jürgen Mevius, Hintz later withdrew the invitation, causing a public outcry in the fall of 2025.
The rally in Klütz saw participants expressing solidarity with Mayor Mevius, citing his 30 years of voluntary service in the region. However, many also criticized the literary house director for not standing firm on inviting Friedman. The town was described as open-minded by several attendees, despite the controversy.
Thea Dorn, spokeswoman for Pen-Berlin, praised the event as a demonstration of democracy in action. Friedman, meanwhile, expressed bewilderment at a mayor interfering in the programming of a literary house. He felt personally hurt by the exclusion and saw it as an opportunity to discuss the freedom of art and opinion.
The rally in Klütz highlighted the importance of freedom of speech and artistic expression. Despite the controversy surrounding Friedman's exclusion, the event brought the community together to discuss these crucial issues. The town's open-mindedness was evident, with many participants expressing their incomprehension and apologies for Friedman's treatment.
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