Left-leaning cultures foster cultures from the right side of the political spectrum

In a series of recent events, two prominent figures in German society have sparked controversy due to their portrayals of diversity. The Milram cheese packaging design and a German railway advertisement from 2019 have both been at the centre of debates, with each side insisting on the accurate representation of a diverse society.

The Milram cheese packaging, featuring a diverse group of people with different skin colours, has been met with massive outrage and calls for boycotts. Critics argue that the visual diversity on the packaging does not reflect the demographic majority in Germany, which predominantly consists of white Europeans.

Similarly, a German railway advertisement from 2019, which prominently featured "People of Colour", also sparked outrage and calls for the exclusion of a party. The controversy surrounding both the Milram cheese packaging design and the railway advertisement reminds the author of a similar dispute experienced in the past.

When skin colour is intentionally used as a criterion in advertising, it can provoke reactions. Overcompensating for underrepresentation by overrepresentation can create new feelings of injustice. It is best not to initiate such cultural conflicts, as they can harm the very groups intended to be made visible.

The Milram cheese packaging design, in particular, has sparked a cycle of cultural conflict. The overrepresentation of People of Colour in the design has led to counter-reactions that are often excessive and unpleasant. This, in turn, has served as fuel for the far-right and the right, who have used the situation to their advantage.

Cultural conflict arising from the left can lead to cultural conflict from the right, creating a cycle that benefits those seeking to divide society. Pouring fuel on the fire serves no one, except those who wish to sow discord.

Overrepresentation can harm the very groups intended to be made visible. In the end, it is essential to strive for a balanced representation that accurately reflects the society we live in, promoting understanding and unity rather than division and conflict.

Left-leaning cultures foster cultures from the right side of the political spectrum