Overview

• Since its installation 18 months ago, Das Hoven has lodged 45 criminal investigations for hate-driven assaults, vandalism and threats targeting staff and patrons.
• Owner Danjel Zarte says he wakes to panic attacks and lives in chronic fear over ongoing attacks on his establishment.
• The Association of Counseling Centers for Victims of Right-Wing, Racist and Antisemitic Violence found a 40% increase in anti-LGBTQ+ attacks last year across 12 of Germany’s 16 states.
• Activists and experts attribute the rise in hate crimes to gains by the Alternative for Germany party and more visible demonstrations by neo-Nazi groups.
• Despite palpable tension at this summer’s Christopher Street Day parade, hundreds of thousands marched in a show of solidarity that underscores community resilience.