German tolerance and immigration

So last night was the “Einbürgerungsfeier” or naturalization celebration for new citizens in Stuttgart held twice a year in the city hall. I was not only invited as a participant but was hired as a performer and to be one of 3 people interviewed about our personal stories and experiences with getting German citenship. I actually got a bit tearful mentioning the irony of being an American and mentioning that Germany had become a shining example of tolerance and sensible immigration policy in light of these dark days of Trumpism.

And despite the resurgence of right-wing hate and propaganda seen by the rise of the anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim AfD party in Germany, that the populous of Stuttgart is welcoming to a vibrant culture of mixed nationalities and that they can also celebrate this while at the same time becoming good German citizens. People should be aware that it has been a huge task integrating refugees over the last 5 years but Germany has been up to the task. And the bad press from conservative sources that this has been a disaster of some sort is far from the truth. Thanks Germany and thanks Stuttgart.