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TLDR
- Berlin has renamed the plaza in front of its state House of Representatives after Holocaust survivor Margot Friedländer.
- The renaming ceremony took place on Thursday, two days before the first anniversary of Friedländer's death, honoring her legacy and commitment to remembrance.
- Officials stated the square serves as a symbol of human dignity, Jewish life, and the democratic values of freedom, respect, and tolerance, standing as a commitment against antisemitism.
In a powerful act of remembrance and a clear stand against hatred, Berlin has officially renamed the plaza before its state House of Representatives as 'Margot Friedländer Square.' This significant tribute honors the life and legacy of a remarkable Holocaust survivor and honorary citizen of Berlin, whose unwavering commitment to remembering the atrocities of the past has left an indelible mark. The ceremony, held on Thursday, precedes the first anniversary of her passing, ensuring her memory remains a visible and permanent fixture in the heart of the city's democracy.
Margot Friedlander Square stands for human dignity, for Jewish life in our city, and for the values that are essential to our democracy: freedom, respect, and tolerance.
Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner, alongside other dignitaries including House of Representatives President Cornelia Seibeld and Margot Friedländer Foundation chairman Prof. Dr. Karsten Dreinhöfer, unveiled the new name. Mayor Wegner emphasized that the square's designation is a profound confession against antisemitism and all forms of misanthropy. "Margot Friedländer Square stands for human dignity, for Jewish life in our city, and for the values that are essential to our democracy: freedom, respect, and tolerance," he stated, underscoring the square's role as a constant reminder of the importance of these principles.
We honor an extraordinary woman in one of the most visible places in our democracy. This square keeps the memory of our honorary citizen Margot Friedlander alive – and it is a clear commitment against antisemitism and all forms of misanthropy.
Cornelia Seibeld noted that the House of Representatives was the site of Friedländer's last public appearance, making the location particularly poignant. Prof. Dr. Dreinhöfer highlighted Friedländer's motto, "be human," and her tireless work to ensure the crimes against the Jewish people would never be forgotten. The renaming is more than just a name on a plaque; it is a promise, as the Margot Friedländer Foundation hopes, that humanity will remain at the core of their democracy. The European Jewish Congress has also welcomed this initiative, recognizing Friedländer's return to Berlin in her later years and her subsequent role as a powerful advocate for remembrance and reconciliation.
Naming the square in front of the House of Representatives after Margot Friedlander is a lasting reminder – her legacy is thus visible every day.
Originally published by BBC News. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.