More than a thousand people marched in Berlin and Hamburg under the motto 'Men against Violence' to protest domestic violence, femicides and sexual harassment. Organizers aimed to show solidarity with women and give Father's Day a different meaning.
In Berlin participants gathered in the rain and hail on Pariser Platz. Organizers from the initiative 'Men against Violence' spoke of 3500 people while police estimated around 800 participants. Speakers included comedian Aurel Mertz, journalist Daniela Sepehri and activist Battal.
Battal, who experienced domestic violence himself, stressed: 'It is not all men, but it is always a man.' He urged men to break the silence and speak out louder. In Hamburg numerous people gathered on Heiligengeistfeld, organized by the group 'Come On Boys'.
The protesters called for more funding for women's shelters, prevention and specialized court chambers. They also advocated implementing 'Only Yes means Yes' in sexual criminal law. Many women and children also took part.