May 8: A Reminder of the Past and a Call for Vigilance
Churches underscore the obligation of both present and emerging generations - Church Reminders: Upholding Responsibility Across Generations
As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, our thoughts turn to a day of liberation and the beginning of a new, better time - a time of reconciliation, peace, European unity, and transatlantic friendship. Yet, this day also carries a heavy responsibility for the future.
Kirsten Fehrs and Georg Bätzing, leaders in the German Catholic Church, remind us of the reasons that allowed the horrors and breakdown of civilization during that era. They acknowledge that democracy in Germany did not have enough champions ready to face the challenges of the time. From the gratitude for the reconciliation after the war, there arises the will: "This time, we defend our values! We stand against any attempts to revive the spirits of violence and hatred: Not with us, never again!"
On May 8, we remember the end of the war in Europe. A memorial event is planned in the Bundestag, with Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier delivering a speech. The president of the social association VdK, Verena Bentele, emphasized the importance of remembering the victims of the war and the Nazi dictatorship. "Vigilance against any form of discrimination, exclusion, or devaluation of people" remains essential.
Bernd Fabritius, president of the Federation of Expellees (BdV), reflected on the experiences of millions of Germans who were displaced or forcibly expelled from their homeland following the war. Memorializing the end of the war includes honoring these victims and their stories.
Remembering the past is vital. It serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed under totalitarian regimes and the importance of democracy and human rights. It encourages active participation in democratic processes and fosters a culture of respect for human rights and dignity.
Now more than ever, it is crucial to remain vigilant against the resurgence of extremist ideologies and promote awareness of the dangers of fascist and nationalist movements. Fostering critical thinking, engaging in discussions about the importance of democratic principles, and supporting institutions that protect individual freedoms are essential tasks for current and future generations.
Let us remember the day of liberation on May 8, not just as a victory over tyranny, but as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of democracy. Not with us, never again!
- The community policy in remembering the end of World War II emphasizes the importance of vigilance against discrimination, exclusion, or devaluation of people, as underscored by Verena Bentele, the president of the social association VdK.
- In their reminders, Kirsten Fehrs and Georg Bätzing of the German Catholic Church advocate for the defense of democratic values in the face of any attempts to revive the spirits of violence and hatred, following the experiences of the World War II era.
- Bernd Fabritius, president of the Federation of Expellees (BdV), proposes that remembrance of the end of the war should also involve honoring the victims and stories of the millions displaced or expelled, emphasizing the importance of memorializing their experiences.
- Recalling World War II's end, our focus should not only be on victory over tyranny but also on the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of democracy, as a means to combat the resurgence of extremist ideologies and promote critical thinking, discussions about democratic principles, and support for institutions protecting individual freedoms.
