Statement
Guggenheim to Withdraw BMW Guggenheim Lab Berlin from Planned Site in Kreuzberg
March 19, 2012
In response to police and local authoritiesʼ high hazard assessment, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation has decided to withdraw the BMW Guggenheim Lab from the site planned in Kreuzberg, Berlin. This decision follows threats against the project. The Foundation regrets having to make this decision, as the purpose of the BMW Guggenheim Lab is to create a space for public discussion, open to the widest possible range of views. While we welcome vigorous debate, we cannot risk the possibility of violence, as raised by a small minority. As a responsible global citizen and an institution that serves the public, the Foundation must, as a first priority, ensure the safety of the staff and participants in any program it offers.
The Guggenheim Foundation appreciates the warm welcome and interest it has received from many individuals and organizations in Berlin and in Kreuzberg. These valuable discussions will continue and will be honored at a new site.
This decision has been made with the full support of our colleagues at BMW Group.
March 19, 2012
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