Aachen is reminiscent: 80 years of liberation - a memorial for peace and democracy

Aachen is reminiscent: 80 years of liberation - a memorial for peace and democracy

On Sunday, the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War was honored in Aachen with a solemn act in the crowning room of the town hall. The event attracted numerous guests from the region, including delegations from Aachen's partner cities. The presence of a delegation from Arlington, USA, which symbolizes the victims and the commitment of the American troops during the war, was particularly emphasized. Former Federal Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer gave an urgent speech that stood in a strong contrast to the festive atmosphere and treated topics such as nationalism and social responsibility.

In his speech, Fischer made it clear that the anniversary is not only a reason to celebrate, but also a memorial for the future generation. With the words: "Nationalism is the war," he warned of a resolution of nationalist tendencies in Europe. This not only exposes the achievements of recent years, but also questions the basic values of democracy that Europe has built.

an afternoon of reflection

With the performance of Beethoven's "Europeanmymno" by the Aachen Symphony Orchestra, the severe tone of Fischer's speech was loosened up. Mayor Sibylle Keupen recalled the suffering of the people in Aachen at the time of World War II, but also emphasized the joy of liberation and the associated new beginning. She emphasized that Aachen had become the "city of peace, culture and understanding".

Although the ceremony included sociable elements, like the conversations between several important representatives: inside, focused on Fischer's words. In his explanations, the 76-year-old outlined a dark reality in which the rise of nationalism endangers democracy. He appealed that these topics must not be excluded and that society had to stand up for peace and democracy more than ever.

Keupen was aware of the fragile situation in Europe and asked everyone present to deal responsibly with the legacy of the past. "This day gives us the strength and the courage to continue to use us for a world in which peace, freedom and democracy do not remain just ideals, but are lived reality," she explained. This message addresses the need to actively work for the values that many have fought in front of us.

fischer concluded with a warning: "In view of the historical experiences of Europe with nationalism, his return to power would be nothing less than a simple disaster for us Europeans." His concern about social developments suggests a clear obligation to deal with the past and current challenges.

This day in Aachen was not just an honor of the past, but a clear appeal for the future. Politicians and representatives from several countries took part in the previous ceremony, including prime ministers and local personalities who emphasized dialogue about friendship and reconciliation. Invitations to numerous cultural events until the end of the year underline the continuing desire for memory and thoughtfulness.

The next few months offer the city of Aachen and its citizens: inside opportunities to reflect history in connection with the liberation and to discuss important social issues. This is done not only through memory events, but also through educational events that focus on the social teachings of the past.

While the ceremonies in Aachen appreciate history, the question arises in the room how decisive these memories are for today. The fight against nationalism and for peace remains a fundamental challenge for society.

For more information about the upcoming events and the deeper analysis of the topics treated during the ceremony in Aachen, the reporting on www.aachener-zeitung.de can be accessed.