Many artists are joining the Städtischen Bühnen for Holocaust Remembrance Day to make sure the crimes committed by the National Socialists, who murdered millions of people who thought, believed, loved in a different way, or whose lives were not considered worth living, are not forgotten.
Not forgetting shapes the future, not forgetting means learning from history and mistakes. Not forgetting means fighting anything that violates human dignity. The arts can help make memories stay alive and vital in our minds and hearts. This evening is an appeal to make a stand against antisemitism and racism. An evening to make sure we don't forget, for a caring society.
Traces of the past are inscribed in the Paulskirche: the Cradle of Democracy, the first parliament, but also a place where many important speeches were made, not only for, but against, not forgetting. Many voices will be heard this evening, which will build in a resounding memorial to democracy, tolerance and freedom. Those taking part include members of Frankfurt's opera and drama ensembles, Barbara Bišický-Ehrlich, Nuran David Calis, Michel Friedman, Omer Klein, Cameron Shahbazi, Edgar Selge, Meron Mendel, Alla Vasilevitsky, the Alte Oper, English Theatre, Ensemble Modern, hr Sinfonieorchester & Bigband and the Kronberg Academy.
Evidence that antisemitism and racism has not gone away, and is increasing in Germany, including Frankfurt, proves just how important it is that we never forget. Not forgetting can built bridges between now and the future.
