Civil Courage Award Goes to Saxony and Brandenburg

Two initiatives from Saxony and Brandenburg have been awarded the Prize for Civil Courage by the Friends of the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and the Jewish Community of Berlin. The organizations “Geschichte hat Zukunft” from Neuendorf im Sande and “Buntes Meißen” assume social responsibility in different ways, strengthen local democratic structures, and take a stand against misanthropy, according to the citation. They will each receive prize money of 2,000 euros. 

“We are once again encountering antisemitism, racism, and right-wing extremism openly and with a matter-of-factness that must alarm us,” lamented Lea Rosh, chairwoman of the support association. “That is precisely why we need people who do not look away or remain silent, but who speak out, take responsibility, and take action locally.” This year’s award recipients demonstrated that moral courage is not an abstract ideal. “It begins in everyday life, in our cities and communities—and it is essential for ensuring that our democracy remains resilient.” 

The association “Geschichte hat Zukunft” (History Has a Future) is committed to coming to terms with the history of the former Jewish agricultural settlement Neuendorf im Sande near Fürstenwalde/Spree, according to the statement. It combines local remembrance efforts with historical and political education. Through its work, the association “Buntes Meißen – Alliance for Civil Courage” strengthens civic engagement at the local level and advocates for an open and diverse society even under difficult conditions.