Cities Use Valentine's Day for Action Against Violence Against Women - Brandenburg cities protest gender violence on Valentine's Day with public dances
On Valentine’s Day, Brandenburg cities will join a global protest against gender-based violence. Instead of celebrating romance, activists will dance in public spaces to demand change. The demonstrations come as reported domestic violence cases in the region hit a five-year high. The protest in Potsdam begins at 2:00 PM at the Brandenburg Gate. Organisers, including the Brandenburg Women’s Shelter Network, chose the date to challenge what they call outdated gender roles tied to Valentine’s Day. They argue the holiday’s romantic image hides a persistent crisis of violence against women.
Similar events will take place in Cottbus, Rathenow, Angermünde, and Königs Wusterhausen, with Oranienburg following on Monday. These demonstrations are part of the global One Billion Rising campaign, where people dance in public to call for an end to violence against women and girls. Potsdam’s mayor, Noosha Aubel, will join the event.
The protests follow a rise in domestic violence cases in Brandenburg. In 2024, authorities recorded 6,790 incidents—the highest number in five years. The demonstrations aim to highlight the gap between Valentine’s Day celebrations and the reality of gender-based violence. With multiple cities participating, organisers hope to draw attention to the issue across the region. The protests also align Brandenburg with a worldwide movement calling for safer communities for women and girls.
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