The Social Democrat politician Helge Lindh has labelled Eid, which traditionally marks the end of the Muslim fasting period, as one of the “most important religious festivals in Germany today”. The self-proclaimed “Datteldude” smiles into the camera and wishes his Muslim fellow citizens “wonderful delights”. The holiday greetings are part of the standard repertoire of the member of the German parliament, who repeatedly posts the short videos online on certain occasions.
The reactions of the online community are very varied. Some congratulate and thank Lindh for his open words, while the majority see the videos, which have been criticised as artificial, primarily as an attempt to win over Muslim voters for the Social Democratic Party. On X (formerly Twitter) in particular, the Social Democrat is mainly met with malice, with one user writing: “He’s like the child who was never elected and somehow desperately wants to be part of it. I find that somehow rather damn embarrassing.” Just a few days ago, Lindh caused a stir in the Bundestag when he reproduced a number of clichés about right-wing conservatives in an acted speech in which he performed as an AfD voter.
Eid is one of the most important festivals in the Muslim year. It begins with a special morning prayer and the exchange of greetings and sweets. Families dine together and the children receive gifts and new clothes. The festival is characterised by communal meals and cultural events that celebrate the diversity of the Muslim community. Muslim teachings also call for special support for the needy during this time. However, this charity is primarily aimed at devout Muslims.
The extent to which the Muslim communities in Germany feel addressed by Lindh’s statement can therefore only be surmised.
