By Dou in Tactics —

My Tactics for Survival (as an Immigrant in Germany)

in case the reader and I feel careless, helpless or (politically) cynical, so that we have something to read as a reminder that despite all the misery in the world, we still have ways to resist!

First of all, reference to the inspiration of the title: @joshuaidehen@mastodon.social

And secondly, here are the tactics that I use to maintain my dignity and emotional well-being. I also thought that it makes sense to make such a post as early as possible, in case the reader and I feel careless, helpless or (politically) cynical, so that we have something to read as a reminder that despite all the misery in the world, we still have ways to resist!

1. Community-Building

  • Seek out leftist and queer groups to make friends and build support networks.

2. Conversational Strategies (“Discursive Weapons”)

Understanding right-wing, racist, and conservative values/arguments (which are often similar, repetitive, and universal) helps me respond effectively.

a) Identify Hidden Meanings

  • Most of the time they won’t address things directly but imply them.
  • Pay attention to what they’re curious about, where you’re from, their choice of wording, lack of eye contact, or the use of “but.” (the full story of the infamous "but")

b) Predict What’s Coming Next

  • Anticipate the trajectory of their arguments to be ready with a response.

c) Subvert Stereotypes

  • Use their stereotypes to surprise them — but keep using “we” (inclusive language) so they can’t just think “you’re different/exceptional” and dismiss everyone else.
  • Example: “Oh, a Turkish guy with long hairs who is an atheist” for more typical stereotypes see: Esra Gülmen's work

d) Ask Challenging Questions

  • Challenge their assumptions in the guise of curiosity.
  • Example: When they complain that “Ausländers can’t speak proper German,” ask, “Do you know any Turkish words, although in your city there are so many?”

e) Show Similarities with Your Own Country

  • Most often they presume your country is inferior; point out parallels.
  • Example: When they say, “In Germany we speak German,” reply, “Oh, I know this argument — Turkish nationalists say the same even though there are so many languages in Turkey.”

f) Recognize When Prejudice Is Expressed More Openly by the Less-Privileged

  • Prejudiced views are widespread, but privileged groups often express them more subtly or hide them, while less-privileged groups may voice them more openly (e.g., lower-class white Germans vs. upper-class, East Germans vs. West Germans, Turkish immigrants toward Syrians, cis people toward trans people). The narrative is usually the same, just aimed at a different group. Once you see which group they belong to, show them that the same narrative was once directed at them.
  • Example: if an East German complains that “Ausländers are lazy,” ask, “Didn’t West Germans used to say that about East Germans?” (see the full story:Two AFD supporters)

This is an unfinished list and will be updated over time. Feel free to reach out if you know other resources that might help!

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