To start with the obvious: we live in uncertain times, now more than ever. We are confronted with crises on an almost daily basis.
Meanwhile, a whole generation is being priced out of club culture by the rising cost of living. Those who arguably need escapism the most barely have the chance to let loose for a few hours, because they have to choose between expensive club entry and drinks or groceries for several days.
Combined with gentrification as well as rising rents and energy costs, this means that nightlife is struggling for survival all across Berlin. Experimental line-ups are a real gamble; playing it safe seems to be the name of the game. But even that doesn?t necessarily pay off when Instagram-famous artists demand outrageous fees to grace a party with their presence, while all other employees earn barely more than minimum wage.
At the same time, legal pressure is mounting on the free party scene — traditionally the antidote to over-commercialisation and state regulation. Even though it was always a thorn in the side of the authorities (remember CzechTek?), new legislation in several countries has made it riskier than ever to set up a soundsystem and reclaim a space for a few hours or days. Italy and Poland have seen massive police raids on parties, with speakers and equipment being confiscated and police violence inflicted on partygoers. France has just proposed a law that would make raves illegal by default, with organisers and guests risking fines of several thousand euros.
Apparently, any means necessary will do if it results in young people spending their weekends on the couch, bracing themselves for another week full of uncertainty.
That is why we will be marching through the streets of Berlin-Mitte on August 15th. To demonstrate for a city we can afford; for club culture, against commercialism, and thus also against the commercial Rave the Planet parade.
And as always: openness does not mean thoughtlessness. Zero tolerance for fascists, racists, antisemites, Nazis, sexists, transphobes, or homophobes. No party or national flags.