Controversial Sign - Thuringian Ministry: Silence-fox not the same as Wolf's greeting
Despite its similarity to the controversial Wolf Salute, the Silent Fox is not a topic of debate in Kindergartens and schools in Thuringia. The Education Ministry in Erfurt has clarified this. The so-called Silent Fox, which signifies quieting down, is a child-friendly symbol, "which we do not question," said a ministry spokesperson. Previously, there had been media reports that the city of Bremen had banned the Silent Fox from Kindergartens and schools due to its resemblance to the Wolf Salute.
The Wolf Salute is formed by bending the thumb, middle, and ring fingers into a sort of snout, while the index and pinky fingers form something like ears. The salute usually signifies allegiance or sympathy with the Turkish ultra-nationalist Grey Wolves Movement and its ideology. During the Football European Championship, the sign caused controversy when a Turkish national player used it during goal celebrations.
Risk of confusion "strongly constructed"
The similarly shaped Silent Fox is intended to establish a calm group or learning situation. If it is used in primary school or kindergarten, its meaning should be clear, said the ministry spokesperson. Teachers or pedagogical staff interpreting or children misinterpreting the sign is "strongly constructed."
There have been no reported confusion cases yet, he added. If there are, the ambiguity must be addressed pedagogically. It is clear that the Wolf Salute has no place in Thuringian schools and kindergartens with clear intention or context.
The Education Ministry in Erfurt has expressed no concern about the Silent Fox in Bremen, contrasting reports of its ban due to similarity to the Wolf Salute. The Wolf Salute, associated with the Turkish ultra-nationalist Grey Wolves Movement, has sparked controversy due to its use in public displays. Right-wing extremists, particularly in Thuringia, have been known to embrace symbolism, making the need for distinction crucial. Therefore, it's essential to clarify the differences between the peaceful Silent Fox and the controversial Wolf Salute, especially in school settings.
