Recollections in Brief
The Anti-Colonial Monument in Bremen, a poignant reminder of Germany's colonial past, recently witnessed the inauguration of a new commemorative plaque. This event was attended by representatives from IG Metall Youth, apprentices from the Mercedes Benz plant, and members of the 'Der Elefant' support association.
Virginie Kamche, from the Bremen Africa Network, described the Anti-Colonial Monument as a piece of memory and a reminder. She hopes that the new plaque will promote stronger exchange with people from Africa and provide more perspectives on colonialism. Kamche stated that German colonialism is still being silenced, and the new plaque aims to draw attention to this overlooked chapter in history.
The new commemorative plaque, brass-plated and bearing the inscription "Respect - No Place for Racism", was placed there on the initiative of IG Metall Youth. Jerome Geisinger, Youth Secretary of IG Metall Bremen, stated that the restoration of the old commemorative plaque was necessary due to weathering and defacement. Geisinger emphasized that IG Metall Youth sees themselves as pioneers in the rededication of the Anti-Colonial Monument.
The Anti-Colonial Monument, originally erected in 1932 as the Reichs-Kolonialdenkmal to commemorate colonies lost in World War I, was rededicated in 1989. Each year in August, the victims of the genocide against the Herero and Nama in present-day Namibia are remembered on site at the monument.
The inauguration of the new plaque is in the tradition of IG Metall Youth taking responsibility for not forgetting racism and fascism. The city council of Bremen followed the placement of the first commemorative plaque by the IG Metall Youth and rededicated the monument. This small but important step in addressing the history of colonialism is a testament to the commitment of Bremen's citizens to acknowledge and learn from the past.
- The new commemorative plaque, placed at the Anti-Colonial Monument in Bremen, not only serves as a symbol of respect but also promotes a lifestyle rooted in sustainable living and education, encouraging personal growth.
- Jerome Geisinger, Youth Secretary of IG Metall Bremen, expressed that the rededication of the Anti-Colonial Monument aligns well with the ensemble of home-and-garden projects they undertake, advocating for a more inclusive and equitable future.
- As members of the Bremen Africa Network continue to foster dialogue on the city's colonial past, they aim to integrate insights into education and self-development, promoting a new lifestyle that celebrates diversity and fosters a deeper understanding of humanity.