In Berlin and Hamburg, men are taking to the streets on Father’s Day to stand against violence towards women. The initiative “MännerGegenGewalt” is calling for a rally, which is being referred to for the first time as a “feminist mass protest” aimed specifically at men. The event begins on Thursday at 2:00 PM at the Brandenburg Gate, where thousands of participants are expected.
Felix Banaszak, chairman of the Green Party, and Bundestag member Luke Hoß (Left Party) are encouraging participation in a video. Comedian Aurel Merz, who will also speak, stated: “The manosphere and self-proclaimed ‘alpha males’ want to convince us that masculinity consists of emotional callousness, dominance, and hatred towards women. We are pushing back against that.”
The initiative was founded in response to the societal discussion about digital and sexualized violence against women. This discussion gained momentum after allegations against actor Christian Ulmen emerged, who is accused of creating fake profiles of his ex-wife and distributing pornographic content. Ulmen is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Simultaneously with the rally in Berlin, an event is also planned in Hamburg. Hamburg initiative “ComeOnBoys” demands that men take responsibility and clearly position themselves against violence. They criticize the traditional Men’s Day, which is often associated with alcohol and inappropriate behavior.
