Berlin's Volksbühne cancels Black children's swim event amid safety concerns

Berlin's Volksbühne theater and the association Each One Teach One (Eoto) have canceled a planned exclusive swimming session for Black children and youth, citing safety concerns. The event, scheduled for Friday afternoon, was to take place at the temporary outdoor pool 'Volksbad' installed in front of the theater. The cancellation follows racist and right-wing backlash, including threats against Eoto and criticism from politicians. The pool, open since August 7, 2026, and running until early October, is 5 meters long and 1.30 meters deep, with free entry. On certain days, it is reserved for specific associations. The exclusive use by Eoto drew criticism, with AfD leader Alice Weidel calling it 'apartheid' and a young CDU local politician expressing dismay over being excluded due to her skin color. Eoto reported receiving racist hate mail, threats of violence, and discriminatory comments on social media. The Volksbühne's intendant, Matthias Lilienthal, affirmed the theater's commitment to positive measures for structurally disadvantaged people and continued cooperation with Eoto, but stressed that guest, partner, and staff protection is paramount. The pool has been closed since Tuesday due to shower problems, with a planned reopening on Friday, though the public bathing operation from 6 PM remains uncertain. The incident highlights tensions around affirmative action and racial discrimination in Germany.