Commemorating the victims of the terror attack in Hanau

Hanau (d.de) – Numerous events are held across Germany to commemorate the victims of the racist terror attack that happened in Hanau six years ago. On 19 February 2020, a 43-year-old German had shot dead nine people out of racist motives, before killing his mother and himself. This year, the victims are commemorated in silent wreath-laying ceremonies at the crime scenes, as well as with corridors of light in the evening. Wreaths and flower arrangements will also be laid down in other places in Germany and abroad. Permission for demonstrations and protest marches has been obtained in Heidelberg, Stuttgart, Mannheim and Karlsruhe. 

“Six years after the attack in Hanau we are thinking of the people who were violently killed. They are missed sorely to this day. We must not and will not forget them,” said Minister of State for Culture and the Media Wolfram Weimer on the occasion of the anniversary. “Anyone who murders people because of where they are from, is also attacking our democratic and liberal-minded society. We are taking a firm stand against this and are dedicated to fighting racism and extremism.” The Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media and Initiative kulturelle Integration (initiative for cultural integration) have organised a campaign day in Hanau. At the heart of the event are nationwide art competitions for schools that aim to encourage young people to think about issues such as anti-Semitism, right-wing extremism and other forms of marginalisation.