Memorial event on August 2 at the memorial in the Großer Bachgasse
Darmstadt. The science city of Darmstadt invites you to a commemoration on Saturday, August 2, 2025 , at 1:30 p.m. together with the Hessian State Association of German Sinti and Roma and the initiative "Label Güterbahnhof" initiative . The place of commemoration is the memorial in Große Bachgasse in front of the Justus Liebig-Haus , in the area of which several Sinti families once lived, the victims of the National Socialist persecution.
Reminder to act against racism
August 2 is reminiscent of the night in 1944, in which thousands of Sinti and Roma were murdered by the SS Auschwitz-Birkenau extermination camp In Darmstadt too, the suffering of the persecuted has also been reminded publicly on this day. This year Mayor Barbara Akdeniz in representation of Mayor Hanno Benz .
Benz emphasizes in an explanation:
"The memory of the persecution of the Sinti and Roma is not only a look back at a dark past, but a call to stand up for a society today in which diversity is valued. Any form of racism can lead to immeasurable suffering - this must drive us to act actively for democracy and respect."
Barbara Akdeniz also warns:
"The atrocities on Sinti and Roma are part of our history - and at the same time a lasting obligation. We have to put prejudices and actively work against discrimination."
Warning words from the community
Rinaldo Strauß , deputy managing director of the regional association of German Sinti and Roma, criticizes the lack of public perception of historical responsibility:
"Our history is hardly anchored to this day. Anti -Ziganism must not be displaced. The story has shown: Looking away can have fatal consequences."
The city of Darmstadt calls on all citizens to take part in the event and to set a common sign of humanity and tolerance.
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/Stip)
