Three years ago, nine people were murdered in Hanau due to racist motives. On February 19th, we remember the victims of the attack.
As we remember this tragic event, carnival celebrations are taking place. However, for many people, February 19th is not a cause for celebrations. The day reminds us of the immense tragedy caused by racism and the necessity to combat structural racism and right-wing extremism. The fact that carnival now falls onto the same day as this terrible attack is because this day lies 46 days before Easter. This is how the date for carnival is calculated.
Nonetheless, we believe it is essential to recognise the concerns of those who wish to pause on this day. We also believe it is very important for as many people as possible to join this remembrance. One should additionally consider, to what extent the issue must be taken into account and addressed within the scope of cultural heritage.
The Volt faction in the Römer reaffirms the demand for an annual “Anti-Racism Day” on February 19th. This was already established in a budget request (E 80) by the coalition last year. The request includes, among other things, a commemoration ceremony, a wreath-laying at the memorial under the Peace Bridge as well as an illumination of the Frankfurt St. Paul’s Church. The “Anti-Racism Day” should remind us that racism is still a serious problem in our society. It should be a day of remembrance and learning, to remind us that we all have a responsibility to prevent racist attacks. It should be a day of remembrance that helps us stand together as a society.
Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We will never forget them.
