18 Stolpersteine: Gedenken An Den Holocaust

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Post on Nov 02, 2024

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18 Stolpersteine: Remembering the Holocaust in Germany

18 Stolpersteine are a powerful symbol of remembrance for the victims of the Holocaust in Germany. These small, brass-plated cobblestones, each bearing the name and fate of a deported, murdered, or missing person, are installed in the pavement in front of the last known addresses of the victims. This unique project, initiated by the German artist Gunter Demnig, serves as a poignant reminder of the individual stories behind the horrors of the Holocaust.

What are Stolpersteine?

"Stolpersteine" translates to "stumbling stones" in English. The name is symbolic, as the stones literally cause passersby to stumble, forcing them to pause and reflect on the individual lives lost.

Each Stolperstein is a small, brass cube, measuring 10 cm x 10 cm, with a polished surface engraved with the following information:

• The name of the victim
• Their year of birth
• Their year of deportation, murder, or disappearance
• A brief statement about their fate

The Power of Individuality

The installation of Stolpersteine emphasizes the individuality of each victim. Unlike large memorials, these small, personal markers bring the human cost of the Holocaust to the forefront. They invite passersby to pause, read the inscription, and imagine the life that was lost. This personal touch creates a more intimate and powerful connection with the victims.

A National Project

Since the first Stolperstein was installed in 1992, Demnig has placed over 75,000 stones in over 1,400 cities across Germany, Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Hungary, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, and Ukraine. The project continues to expand, with new stones being laid regularly.

A Community Effort

The installation of each Stolperstein is often a collaborative effort, involving local communities, schools, and historical societies. Volunteers gather information about victims, research their lives, and raise funds for the stones. This community involvement strengthens the connection between the past and the present, making the remembrance even more impactful.

A Legacy of Remembrance

The Stolpersteine serve as a vital tool in combating indifference and fostering remembrance. By acknowledging the victims and their stories, these small memorials help prevent such atrocities from happening again. They are a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting against hatred, intolerance, and discrimination in all forms.

In conclusion, the 18 Stolpersteine are more than just cobblestones. They are a testament to the human spirit, a symbol of remembrance, and a call to action. By pausing to acknowledge the victims, we honor their memory and strive to create a more just and peaceful world.