Hessian Culture Minister Fires Museum Director for Racist Remark
Introduction
In a swift and decisive move, Hessian Minister of Arts and Culture Timon Gremmels (SPD) has dismissed Martin Eberle, the director of the Kassel Museums. The sole reason for the termination, Gremmels stated, was Eberle’s admitted racist comment towards David Zabel, the chairman of Kassel’s Cultural Advisory Board.
The Incident
During a meeting of the Cultural Advisory Board on October 8, 2024, Eberle allegedly responded to Zabel’s inquiry about his attendance at a future meeting with the following statement: "Mr. Zabel, I’ll say something racist now. I will not attend, but I will send my colleague. I could tell her to smear shoe polish on her face so that you do not feel so alone at Cultural Advisory Board meetings." Zabel is a black man.
Eberle’s Response and Apology
After the incident came to light, Eberle acknowledged his remark and apologized. He expressed his intention to participate in anti-discrimination training. However, this was not enough to salvage his position.
Minister Gremmels’ Decision
Gremmels emphasized that no form of racism would be tolerated and that such behavior had to be met with consequences. He expressed concern that Eberle’s remark had not only damaged the reputation of Hessen Kassel Heritage but had also led to several cooperation partners withdrawing their support.
"We must act, also because we fear further damage to the reputation of Hessen Kassel Heritage, which has an international reputation," Gremmels said. "Moreover, numerous cooperation partners have indicated that they are not willing to continue working with the institution."
The dismissal was effective at the end of the second quarter, with Eberle being placed on leave until then.
Commendation of Eberle’s Past Work
Despite the severity of the offense, Gremmels acknowledged Eberle’s contributions over the past seven years. "He has internationalized Hessen Kassel Heritage. He has left a lasting mark here. He has initiated new, modern concepts," said Gremmels. "Eberle has achieved a lot for HKH. And that remains, despite everything."
Kassel Magistrate’s Decision
Prior to Gremmels’ announcement, the Kassel Magistrate had unanimously passed a resolution withdrawing its trust in Eberle. The body declared that there was no longer any basis for a trusting working relationship and demanded that a new HKH representative be sent to Cultural Advisory Board meetings.
Cultural Advisory Board’s Demand
Members of the Cultural Advisory Board, representing Kassel’s independent cultural scene, had earlier demanded "a clear signal that the work towards a discrimination-free and anti-racist society is not being consistently upheld even within municipal bodies." They called for clear consequences and Eberle’s immediate resignation.
Conclusion
The dismissal of Martin Eberle sends a strong message that racism will not be tolerated in Hessian institutions. While Eberle’s past contributions were acknowledged, his racist remark was deemed unacceptable and incompatible with his leadership role. The decision underscores the growing intolerance for such behavior in society and the imperative for institutions to create and maintain inclusive and respectful environments.
