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GEW boss Maike Finnern: Teachers have a duty to stand up for democracy and diversity
Photo: Sebastian Willnow / dpa
The Education and Science Union (GEW) calls on teachers in Germany to critically examine the AfD in their lessons. »I not only encourage teachers to engage with the AfD in the classroom as well. I expressly call on you to do so," said GEW boss Maike Finnern to the "Stuttgarter Zeitung" and the "Stuttgarter Nachrichten" (Friday's edition).
»The AfD is a party with anti-constitutional tendencies. Teachers can and should say that in the classroom,” says Finnern.
She also has a suggestion for how teachers can approach the topic: "The best way to do this is to analyze specific statements and processes and discuss them with the students."
Teachers are also allowed to demonstrate
Finnern reported that many teachers were afraid that they would get into trouble with their employers if they went to anti-right-wing demonstrations. But that's not true.
Teachers, like other citizens, have the right to demonstrate against right-wing extremism, said Finnern.
“In our view, they have a duty even more than others to stand up for democracy and diversity and to raise their voices against right-wing extremism and anti-constitutional activities.” Because: “Teachers swear by the constitution – and by defending it.”
vet/AFP