– Berlin Senate dropped new policy linking funding to “anti-discrimination clause” after backlash from artists.
– The policy required recipients to support “diverse society” and oppose antisemitism based on IHRA definition.
– Nearly 6,000 artists signed letter protesting the clause, citing impact on freedom of art and expression.
– Artists concerned about IHRA’s definition creating grounds for canceling events and impacting Jewish cultural workers.
– Funding withdrawals and exhibition cancellations have occurred as a result of the controversy.
– Berlin Senate retracted the clause and plans to work with cultural workers and institutions on a new approach.
– The clash has sparked discussions on freedom of art and discrimination within Berlin’s cultural community.