Culture of remembrance
“The best insurance against international hatred, totalitarianism, fascism and National Socialism is and remains the living memory of and active engagement with history. (…)” (Roman Herzog)
In a speech to the Bundestag to commemorate the victims of National Socialism, former Federal President Roman Herzog pointed out that reflecting on the past and remembering the victims provides us with guidance for the future. Reflection and remembrance therefore provide us with many pointers as to which paths we should take for a peaceful future and which dangers to human rights and democracy we must intervene in.
Our school trip to the Auschwitz memorial in Poland plays an important role in the active culture of remembrance at an authentic historical site. We take 26 pupils there every year after the half-year report. The program includes guided tours of the memorial, but also a visit to an art exhibition on the subject, a discussion with contemporary witnesses and a tour of Krakow.
The first focus of this trip is to commemorate the millions of victims of National Socialist rule in Europe. It also highlights the effects of prejudice, racism, hatred and anti-democratic thinking. At the same time, the possibilities for action, forms of civil courage and humanity are highlighted.
This trip is very intense and at times mentally challenging, but also community-building and very enriching. The interest in the trip and the feedback from the pupils clearly show that the trip is perceived as very impressive and important. All the pupils reported afterwards that they would not have wanted to miss this experience. The following quote applies in full: “Once you’ve been here, you never forget.”