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It’s Not About Bans

How German media and political parties manipulate public opinion to advance their agenda

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Over the years, we’ve witnessed the same process repeat. Individuals or groups who are aware of the importance of decolonization raise concerns about practices that should be reconsidered, because they date back to the colonial era, might be viewed as cultural appropriation, or hurt the feelings of those who's ancestors survived a genocide and endured a lot in order to keep traditions a life. Within hours, German media and political parties turn it into a calculated fabrication - falsely framed as a ‘ban’ - aimed at emotional manipulation. Two examples:

  • The alleged demand to cancel Winnetou - a fictional character created by German author Karl May - was a calculated construct lacking any foundation.
  • Likewise, the fabricated demand for a ban on "Indian costumes" (in German: "Indianerkostüme") follows a similar pattern.

This time, a German daycare center renamed its summer festival to "Pferde und Ponys" ("Horses and Ponies") after one or more parents expressed concerns. As seen in previous cases, misleading headlines surfaced once more—among them, the provocative claim:

"Indianerfest verboten" – "Indian festival banned."


If you have further information about this situation and can help shed light on it, we would appreciate hearing from you. Your input will be treated confidentially. Publication will only take place with your explicit consent and—if desired—without mentioning your name.

Children’s summer festivals and other educational projects can be designed with cultural sensitivity and without cultural appropriation. If you would like more information, feel free to send us a message. A corresponding concept for schools, kindergartens, and daycare centers in Germany has been developed in collaboration with Native Americans, based on over 30 years of experience.


Additional reading:

No Room for Instrumentalization

Stereotypes and "Indian" Costumes

Native American Points of View


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