Penkun sets an example: stumbling blocks remind us of the perpetrators of the Nazi regime

Penkun sets an example: stumbling blocks remind us of the perpetrators of the Nazi regime

Penkun shows heart and remembrance

The city of Penkun is preparing for an important event: On November 9th, four stumbling blocks for the Jewish Braun family and two for the Cohn family will be laid during a service. On this special day, which begins at 10 a.m., the Protestant parish sends a strong signal of remembrance to the fellow citizens killed by the National Socialists. Diana Weber from the parish office provides information about the course of this moving event, which serves to keep the memory of the victims alive and to promote dialogue about the dark chapters of our history.

What are stumbling blocks?

Stolpersteine ​​are small, hand-made concrete cubes with brass plaques that bear the names and dates of life of the victims of Nazi persecution. The ambitious project was launched in 1992 by the German artist Gunter Demnig. Stumbling blocks are installed where the victims last voluntarily lived, worked or studied. A look at the statistics shows that by June 2023, over 100,000 Stolpersteine ​​have already been laid in several countries, making this project the largest decentralized memorial in the world.

Memorable history in Penkun

As early as May 2022, the city of Penkun laid ten stumbling blocks, five each in honor of the Baum and Caspary families. This initiative will be complemented by a lecture on the history of the Jewish community in Penkun on November 7th. The lecture will take place at 6 p.m. in the rectory and will help raise awareness of local history and the fate of Jewish citizens. The relevance of this commemoration is underscored by the fact that many stumbling blocks commemorate not only Jewish victims, but also other groups persecuted by the Nazis, such as Sinti, Roma and homosexuals.

A nationwide phenomenon

Recently, many cities, such as Potsdam and Berlin, have laid their own stumbling blocks, often accompanied by public events and calls to care for the memorial stones. In Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, for example, regular cleaning is being considered to keep the stones looking attractive. The web app “Stolperclean” also offers support in this important task so that the victims’ memories always remain alive.

The foundation behind the Stolperstein Project encourages schools and local organizations to research these stones and actively plan commemorative events. Through emotional discussions and participation, the Stolpersteine ​​have not only found a place in people's hearts, but have also been well received in the media.

A living memory in Penkun

In Penkun they don't want to let any Jewish fellow citizens fall into oblivion. The commitment of the Protestant Church and the upcoming commemoration are examples of the city's will to keep the memories of the dark times alive and to give the victims a proper place in history. The path to reconciliation and awareness of the past are crucial to promote peace in society.

Commemoration in this form not only strengthens the community, but also invites future generations to deal with the past. Come by and take part in the events - because it is important that we never forget!