Hate attacks on Tiergarten rainbow memorial bench

A so-called 'Regenbogenbank' set up in Berlin's Tiergarten as a symbol of mourning and peace for the queer community has repeatedly been attacked, the Tagesspiegel reports on 17 October 2026. The bench, in rainbow colours and placed near a well-known meeting spot in the park, has been smeared, splintered and burnt in recent weeks. Activists, volunteers and park staff have repainted and repaired it each time; a candle vigil was being planned. Police are investigating as suspected hate crime but have not identified suspects. The article asks why a bench meant to signal grief and solidarity has become a target in a city that officially promotes diversity. Civil-society groups are calling for better protection of such sites and for faster police follow-up. The authorities say they are reviewing lighting and patrols around the Tiergarten memorial spot.