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Berlin’s *Decolonizing Christmas* event scrapped after media-fueled backlash and threats

What began as a dialogue on racism became a political battleground. Now, threats and misinformation have silenced the conversation entirely.

In the middle of this image, there is a Christmas tree arranged on the road, on which there are...
In the middle of this image, there is a Christmas tree arranged on the road, on which there are persons. On the left side, there is a flag attached to a pole. On the right side, there is another flag attached to a another pole. In the background, there are buildings which are having lights.

Berlin’s *Decolonizing Christmas* event scrapped after media-fueled backlash and threats

A planned event series called Decolonizing Christmas in Berlin has been cancelled after intense backlash. The controversy began when Die Welt framed the discussions as an attack on Christmas, triggering widespread outrage on social media. Organisers later scrapped a second session following threats against the Muslim speakers involved.

The event was designed to examine racism and power structures through the lens of a Christmas garden. It was led by a Christian and a Muslim woman, aiming to encourage critical reflection. But Die Welt portrayed the project as an attempt to 'abolish Christmas', turning it into a political scandal.

The cancellation leaves unanswered questions about the balance between free speech and cultural sensitivity. The threats against speakers have halted further discussions, while the media storm has overshadowed the event’s original intent. Authorities have yet to announce whether the project’s funding will face consequences.

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