A German comedian attempted to raise the American flag in front of Katuaq in Nuuk on Wednesday.
And it was not a harmless joke, says Mayor of Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq Avaaraq Olsen in an English press release addressed to foreign journalists and media professionals.
"We have recently seen examples of visitors staging provocative stunts in public spaces, using political symbols for shock value, and others approaching children with questions about war, violence and invasion. This is not satire. This is not meaningful journalism. This is reckless behavior carried out in a society that is already under psychological pressure," she says.
She points out that the situation with the United States has made many citizens worried or afraid. She writes that families are struggling with anxiety, insomnia and a constant feeling of insecurity.
- Amplifying these fears for content, clicks or laughter is neither brave nor creative. It simply adds to the burden on an already vulnerable population.
Think before you act.
She speaks directly about the situation with the flag raising.
- Raising a flag at our cultural center in the capital - the flag of the military superpower that has been suggesting the use of military force against our country for weeks - is not a joke. It is not funny. It is extremely harmful.
"You are guests here. That brings responsibility. Cultural differences in humor cannot excuse behavior that scares people or undermines their sense of security. Intention does not outweigh consequence," she says.
The mayor asks that the media think twice before filming or staging something “funny.”
- We welcome respectful visitors and responsible journalism. We will not tolerate behavior that harms our communities.
