Publicist Michel Friedman Responds to Controversial Disinvite

UPDATE: Publicist Michel Friedman is taking a stand after his disinvitation from a significant event in Klütz, Germany. In a developing story, Friedman is speaking out against what he calls a “dangerous signal” surrounding his revoked invitation to discuss democracy at the Uwe Johnson House of Literature in October 2026.

Friedman was slated to celebrate the 120th birthday of Jewish political theorist Hannah Arendt and promote his book, “Mensch! Declaration of Love by a Desperate Democrat.” However, the event’s organizers canceled his appearance due to fears of protests linked to right-wing extremists. Friedman argues that this decision undermines free expression and sends a troubling message to artists and public figures.

In his interview with Euronews, Friedman expressed his disappointment, stating, “How can anyone know today what will happen in October 2026?” He emphasized that the responsibility to ensure safety lies with the state, not with the cancellation of events due to speculative concerns. “To argue with such warnings a year in advance is a disaster,” he added.

The cancellation was defended by Klütz‘s Mayor Jürgen Mevius, who cited financial issues and high costs associated with Friedman’s appearance as key reasons. The mayor claimed that Friedman’s fee exceeded typical rates and suggested that the event was not suitable for the town. However, Oliver Hintz, director of the House of Literature, clarified that sponsorship would cover expenses, contradicting the mayor’s narrative.

Friedman further criticized the financial reasoning behind his disinvite, labeling it as an echo of “anti-Semitic stereotypes.” He stated, “This is reminiscent of stereotypical attributions: the greedy Jew who demands too much.”

The political implications of this incident are resonating beyond Klütz. Felix Klein, Germany’s anti-Semitism commissioner, condemned the disinvitation as a direct assault on constitutional freedoms. Meanwhile, Omid Nouripour, Vice President of the Bundestag, characterized the situation as scandalous, reiterating the importance of defending democracy against intimidation.

In a show of solidarity, a demonstration against Friedman’s disinvitation is scheduled for next Monday in Klütz, organized by local activists to advocate for freedom of expression in the face of right-wing threats.

Friedman remains undeterred, signaling his willingness to participate in future events aimed at promoting democracy. “I go wherever I want in Germany. Nobody should tell me whether I am wanted or not,” he asserted. His resolve highlights a broader struggle against censorship and the need for resilience in democratic discourse.

As this situation develops, it is clear that the conversation surrounding freedom of expression and the role of public figures in society is far from over. The implications of this disinvitation are sending shockwaves through German politics and beyond, with citizens and officials alike weighing in on the necessity of protecting democratic values in the face of adversity.