Clara Zetkin and the Inspirational Legacy she Left Behind: An Overview of Gysi's Speaker's Address
Gysi discloses points of his senior oration
Gregor Gysi, the man likely to be the next Speaker of the German Bundestag, has shared his plans for a thoughtful speech at the constitutive session on Tuesday. Inspired by past Speakers like Willy Brandt and Clara Zetkin, he aims to keep his address around half an hour long and evoke memories of Zetkin, who made history over 90 years ago.
Clara Zetkin, a German socialist leader and women's rights champion, wasn't afraid to stand up to political adversity. Born in 1857, Zetkin fought tirelessly for women's participation in the socialist movement, proposing the idea of International Women's Day in 1910 at the Second International Conference of Socialist Women in Copenhagen. She was a powerful speaker and writer, known for her work as the editor of the journal Die Gleichheit (Equality).
Zetkin made history in 1932 when she was elected to the Reichstag, becoming its oldest member. She delivered a striking 40-minute speech condemning the Nazi Party and Adolf Hitler, highlighting her courage and commitment to preserving democratic principles. This act was a powerful statement against fascism.
Gysi admires Zetkin's bravery, as the Nazi Party had requested that the oldest member should not open the Reichstag in 1932, as they did not want Zetkin's presence. Gysi expects a debate on who will be Speaker, with the AfD proposing Alexander Gauland instead. However, Gysi anticipates the other factions will reject this proposal.
On Tuesday, Gysi will address the newly elected Bundestag for the first time at 11 a.m., making history in his own right with nearly 31 years of service as a member of the Bundestag. Gysi was re-elected with a clear victory in the first round of voting in the Berlin district of Treptow-Köpenick.
Sources: ntv.de, rog/dpa
Insights:- Clara Zetkin was a significant figure in women's rights and social justice, particularly known for her work in advocating for women's participation in the socialist movement.- She made history by delivering a powerful speech against the Nazi Party in the Reichstag in 1932, a testament to her courage and commitment.- Willy Brandt, another influential German politician, is known for his efforts in international diplomacy, particularly through his Ostpolitik.- Gysi's political career aligns more with Zetkin's socialist roots, but his focus is on contemporary issues such as economic policy and European politics.
- The European Parliament, following the example of Clara Zetkin, has also adopted a resolution on the situation in the former Yugoslavia, demonstrating a shared commitment to standing up against political adversity.
- In an interview, Gregor Gysi mentioned his admiration for Clara Zetkin's bravery during his talks with the KPD (Communist Party of Germany), emphasizing her impact on his political philosophy.
- As a tribute to Clara Zetkin and her legacy, the Bundestag might consider discussing the situation in the former Yugoslavia during the upcoming session, continuing the conversation on international political challenges sparked by Zetkin's activism.
