Discrimination persists, but language evolves
In the heart of Thuringia, Germany, the city of Erfurt is undergoing transformation. The construction of the Erfurt Stollberghof is ongoing, and a local investor from TA-Hochhaus is offering discounts for further development 1. However, a darker side of Erfurt's history resurfaces, reminding us that not all changes are visible.
Racism and xenophobia have been ongoing societal issues in Germany, including in cities like Erfurt 2. On August 10, 1975, a violent attack against Algerian contract workers occurred in Erfurt. The attack, which took place from the cathedral square to the main station, was organized by word of mouth and was supported by indifference 3.
The attackers allegedly shouted racist slurs such as "Camel drivers don't belong in Erfurt" and "Hand over the Algerians" [3]. Sadly, racism persists in Erfurt, with similar sentiments being heard online, on schoolyards, and on Facebook [4]. A citizen in Erfurt expresses dissatisfaction with the quality of green maintenance in the city, but the city's darker history seems to be a more pressing concern for many [5].
The young people who engage in hate speech or attacks today may be the descendants of those involved in the 1975 attack. Racism in Erfurt has possibly changed its packaging but not its essence. It is a reminder that history's patterns can return if we are not vigilant [6].
As the city progresses, it is essential to remember the past and work towards a more inclusive future. The August 10, 1975 incident serves as a stark reminder that Erfurt, like many cities, still has work to do in combating racism and xenophobia.
References:
- TA-Hochhaus
- BBC News
- Tagesspiegel
- [Unnamed source]
- [Unnamed source]
- [Unnamed source]
- The local investor from TA-Hochhaus, while advancing Erfurt through development, might also reflect on the importance of fostering inclusivity in politics and general-news, given the city's challenging past with racism and xenophobia.
- The ongoing construction and progress in Erfurt serves as a stark contrast to the unfortunate reality of racism and xenophobia, which remain deeply ingrained in the city's culture and society, as evident in the 1975 attack and more recent incidents.
