Munich Mayor Dieter Reiter Uses Racial Slur in City Council Meeting, Issues Apology
Munich, March 6 – Munich’s Lord Mayor Dieter Reiter (SPD) used a racial slur during a city council meeting on Wednesday, March 5, 2026. The incident, captured on the meeting’s recording, occurred as Reiter was reportedly flipping through documents and said: “So, where are we, as they say…” The term “N-word” is now used to describe a historically racist term for Black people. The news was first reported by “Hallo München.”
Mayor Reiter’s Apology and Explanation
Reiter issued a written statement offering his apologies for the incident. “The remark was a quote from a piece by the artist Fredl Fesl, which spontaneously came to my lips when asking where we were on the agenda,” Reiter explained. Alfred Raimund “Fredl” Fesl (1947-2024) was a Bavarian musician, singer, and cabaret artist. Reiter further stated, “It was in no way my intention to hurt or demean people. If anyone felt hurt or demeaned by my words, I expressly regret it and apologize for it.”
City Council’s Stance on Racial Slurs
The Lord Mayor acknowledged that the Munich City Council, in 2022, had adopted a resolution titled “Condemn the N-word,” clearly stating that the use of this term is to be classified as racist and rejected. “I naturally endorse this position. Especially as Lord Mayor, I have a special responsibility for respectful, sensitive, and non-discriminatory interactions,” Reiter added.
Wider Implications and Public Reaction
The incident has sparked discussion regarding the use of such language, even when cited from other works. The timing, shortly before the municipal elections, also adds a layer of political sensitivity to the event. While Reiter’s apology was swift, the impact of his words on public perception and the city’s commitment to anti-racism initiatives remains a central point of consideration.
The city of Munich has been actively promoting diversity and inclusion. The 2022 resolution against the use of the N-word was a significant step in this direction, reflecting a broader societal effort to combat racism and discrimination. Reiter’s acknowledgment of this resolution in his apology underscores the importance of adhering to these principles, particularly for public figures.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges in eradicating racist language from public discourse, even when unintentional or used in a quoted context. It serves as a reminder of the power of words and the responsibility that comes with public office.
Further details regarding any potential repercussions or follow-up discussions within the city council are yet to be announced.
Source: https://www.radio-bamberg.de/amp/muenchner-ob-reiter-verwendet-n-wort-im-stadtrat-2077425/
