Demokratieland Rheinland-Pfalz: „Was ist eine demokratische Erinnerungskultur un

This concerns the question of whether the memory of the crimes of National Socialism – and beyond that, the crimes of communism – can be connected to the memory of the tumultuous history of German democracy.

How can we remember both the light and the shadows of German history together? Not as two separate narratives, but as a coherent historical and political development? A history of democracy is needed that does not sugarcoat, openly shows its crises and problems, and offers orientation for the present – allowing for both warnings and hope. Furthermore, a remembrance of the Nazi era that takes into account international contexts, seriously acknowledges the paradoxes of democracy, and makes visible the political learning processes after 1945 is essential. Both forms of memory culture share the common task of sharpening awareness of the vulnerability – and thus also the preciousness – of our democratic order. After the crimes against humanity of the Holocaust and the National Socialist dictatorship, Germany has reaffirmed its values in the Basic Law.

Two of the country’s most distinguished experts, Neumärker and Sprenger, will discuss these challenges. With the project “Democracy Land Rhineland-Palatinate,” the State Parliament of Rhineland-Palatinate has commissioned the LpB to develop a state strategy in collaboration with many partners. This strategy is intended to clarify the role of Rhineland-Palatinate as a “Land of Democracy” and to highlight the richness of its democratic history. Additionally, it aims to demonstrate how this democratic heritage relates to the issues of today’s society.

Engaging with the historical foundations of our democracy serves to defend our free, democratic heritage against authoritarian and nationalist currents, strengthens democratic identity, and supports a vibrant democratic culture.

This event takes place at the (memorial) site of the democratic history, the German Cabaret Archive, and is a collaboration with the State Center for Political Education Rhineland-Palatinate.