Masked attackers ruin diversity: Bad Freienwalde in turmoil!

Masked attackers ruin diversity: Bad Freienwalde in turmoil!

In Bad Freienwalde, a town with around 12,000 inhabitants, a frightening incident occurred on June 15, 2025, when masked attackers attacked an event organized by the “Bad Freienwalde is colorful” initiative. This peaceful rally, which was directed against the shift to the right, hatred and incitement, was intended to celebrate the diversity of the community and support the queer community. But the day took a violent turn when a group of around 10 to 15 people used striking tools against the participants, slightly injuring at least two people. The attackers disappeared before police could arrive and have not yet been identified, reports said daily news.

The event, which began at 12 p.m. on Karl-Marx-Straße, was intended to offer a colorful children's program, live music and a graffiti workshop. Damage was reported in advance when around 40 posters advertising the rally were stolen or torn down. There was clearly a system behind the attack, which raises numerous questions and shines an alarming light on the increasing violence against the queer community.

Reactions and investigations

Brandenburg's Interior Minister René Wilke strongly condemned the attack and emphasized the need to take further action against such attacks. He announced that he would travel to Bad Freienwalde to assess the situation on site. “We have to defend ourselves against such attacks,” said Wilke. In an official statement, the police will treat the incident as grievous bodily harm and a violation of the assembly law. Witnesses are asked to describe their observations in order to help clarify the incident, as well Northern Courier reported.

The deplorable event is not just an isolated incident. According to the reports of Lesbian and Gay Association (LSVD), hate crime is the most massive expression of queer hostility. The number of unreported attacks is estimated at an alarming 80-90%, meaning that many victims do not report such incidents out of fear of discrimination or uncertainty as to whether the police can help them. The police recording of anti-queer crimes has so far been inadequate and urgently needs to be improved.

A call for solidarity

The incidents in Bad Freienwalde show that queer people are still at risk in public spaces. The sight of drag queens or homosexual couples can inspire violent criminals and represents an attack on basic democratic values. Events like “Bad Freienwalde is colorful” are more important than ever to take a stand against discrimination and celebrate diversity in society.

The situation not only shines a light on the local community, but also requires a rethink at the political level to prevent future attacks and ensure the safety of all citizens. Together we must fight against these frightening trends. The Brandenburg Interior Minister and the police are faced with the challenge of countering an increasing threat and creating a safe environment for everyone.