Inquiry into the current status of the Margot Friedländer Foundation's operations, Mr Dreinhöfer?
In the heart of Berlin, the Berlin Philharmonic played host to a significant remembrance event for Margot Friedlaender, a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to promoting democracy, tolerance, respect, and humanity in Germany. Her passing in 2021 marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Margot Friedlaender Foundation, established by her at the age of 101, and her mission continues to resonate strongly.
Margot Friedlaender's legacy is built on an active stance against antisemitism, defending democratic values, and encouraging people to act with humanity rather than merely remember past atrocities. Her call to the world, "not just to remember, but to act," is now carried forward by the Foundation through educational and commemorative projects aimed at spreading awareness and fostering engagement.
The Foundation's board and curatorium, comprising personal friends and companions of Margot Friedlaender, are committed to this mission. The chief physician at the event, who also chairs the board of the Margot Friedlaender Foundation, embodies this dedication. The guest list for the foundation's board and curatorium was taken from her last birthday, with "v" or "k" indicating the roles.
The Margot Friedlaender Prize will continue to be awarded, with five projects selected for September 16. The Foundation also plans to launch a second witness program, with trained moderators and ambassadors sharing her story in various social areas. This initiative aims to keep Margot Friedlaender's memory alive and uphold her values.
In addition, the foundation will honour initiatives and personalities who commit to democracy, tolerance, respect, and humanity in Germany. The guests at the memorial service, including politicians, students, and individuals who knew Friedlaender personally or professionally, reflect this commitment.
The foundation also aims to use modern technology to keep Margot Friedlaender's presence in schools through computer-animated means. This innovative approach, along with educational initiatives that combat antisemitism and hatred, will make Friedlaender's testimony and experiences accessible to younger generations.
The Foundation's thematic priorities are clear: promoting the message "Seid Menschen!" ("Be human!") as a core ethical mission, supporting educational initiatives that combat antisemitism and hatred, and collaborating with institutions focused on Holocaust education and remembrance. These efforts align with those fostering democratic resilience and tolerance, such as exhibitions created by the Anne Frank House.
Monika Grütters, Mathias Döpfner, and Joachim Gauck are also members of the board of the foundation, adding their expertise and dedication to the cause. As the Foundation moves forward, it remains committed to translating remembrance into ongoing action towards tolerance and humanity in Germany.
- The Margot Friedlaender Foundation, rooted in her belief to not just remember, but to act, continues to support educational and commemorative projects that promote the ethical mission "Seid Menschen!" (Be human!). These projects aim to combat antisemitism and hatred, aligning with institutions focused on Holocaust education and remembrance.
- The foundation's work extends to fostering women's health, health-and-wellness, science, education-and-self-development, and personal-growth, as these areas contribute to a society based on democracy, tolerance, respect, and humanity.
- As the Margot Friedlaender Prize is awarded each year and new initiatives are launched, such as the second witness program, the foundation ensures that Friedlaender's legacy and values live on, inspiring individuals to engage actively in building a better future.
