“Democracy needs engaged democrats.” These words are etched into the ORTe DER DEMOKRATIE IN BAYERN Stele. This stele marks a crucial moment in Bavaria’s history. Let’s step back in time to understand its significance.
The ORTe DER DEMOKRATIE IN BAYERN Stele stands as a reminder. It commemorates Bamberg’s role as a Keimzelle of democracy. This is a starting point for Bavaria’s democratic journey. In 1919, the Bavarian Landtag sought refuge here. Munich was unstable. Radicalization threatened the government. Bamberg offered security.
Imagine 1919. Picture the city bustling with political activity. The Landtag convened in the Bamberger Harmonie. Here, away from Munich’s turmoil, they drafted Bavaria’s first democratic constitution. The “Bamberger Verfassung” was born. This constitution enshrined principles of parliamentary representation. It established the people’s sovereignty. The right to vote became universal. This included women. For the first time, women could participate in the democratic process.
The ORTe DER DEMOKRATIE IN BAYERN Stele symbolizes this historic Verfassungswürfel. The Verfassungswürfel emphasizes equality. It highlights the many facets of democracy. The stele, designed by Sabine Ackstaller and Moritz Schweikl, embodies Bavarian craftsmanship. It was cast in Straubing. It rests on Kelheim marble.
Consider Johannes Hoffmann. He was Minister President. He steered Bavaria from Bamberg. He suppressed the Munich Soviet Republic. This was with the Reichswehr’s support. After the Bamberger Verfassung, he was the first constitutionally elected Minister President.
The ORTe DER DEMOKRATIE IN BAYERN Stele also prompts reflection. Democracy is not a given. It must be defended. Even in Bamberg, the message is clear. Democracy requires vigilance. The fragile plant of 1919 needed protection.
The exhibition “Orte der Demokratie in Bayern” invites us to learn from the past. The ORTe DER DEMOKRATIE IN BAYERN Stele underlines this. The struggle for democracy continues. Threats exist both externally and internally. Crises breed populism. Extremists exploit fears. They undermine democracy with division. Forces despise our state. They reject our laws.
This stele proclaims: “I, you, we – all are needed.” The ORTe DER DEMOKRATIE IN BAYERN Stele is a call to action. It is a commitment to our Bavarian home. It is a dedication to a stable Germany. It is an embrace of a diverse Europe.
As you stand before the ORTe DER DEMOKRATIE IN BAYERN Stele, remember its message. Engage. Defend. Participate. Democracy’s strength lies in its people.