Perhaps you have heard of a woman who spoke before parliament. Here at the Marie Juchacz Gedenkstein, we honor her memory. This memorial stone commemorates Marie Juchacz. She was a German social reformer, social democrat, and women’s rights activist.
Marie Juchacz played a key role in German history. She founded the Arbeiterwohlfahrt or AWO. It translates to the Workers’ Welfare Association. She led this organization starting in 1919.
But who was Marie Juchacz? Born Marie Gohlke in 1879, she worked various jobs. She was a domestic servant, factory worker, and nurse. Later, she married Bernhard Juchacz. They had two children. The marriage ended in divorce.
In 1908, women gained the right to join political parties. Marie joined the SPD. It’s the Social Democratic Party. She quickly became a sought-after speaker. By 1913, she was a women’s secretary for the party in Cologne. She focused on organizing textile workers.
After World War I, Marie Juchacz’s influence grew. She became a women’s secretary in the central party executive. She also took over editing the women’s newspaper Die Gleichheit.
A pivotal moment came in 1919. Marie Juchacz became a member of the Weimar National Assembly. This was a significant achievement. On February 19, 1919, she made history. She was the first woman to speak in the assembly after women gained the right to vote.
Her words were simple but powerful. She noted it was the first time a woman could speak freely and equally in parliament. She credited the revolution with overcoming old prejudices in Germany.
During the rise of the Nazi party, Marie Juchacz faced persecution. She emigrated in 1933, first to the Saar region. Later, she fled to France and then to New York in 1941.
Even in exile, Marie Juchacz continued her work. She founded the Arbeiterwohlfahrt USA. It provided aid to victims of National Socialism. After the war, she sent help to Germany.
In 1949, Marie Juchacz returned to Germany. She became the honorary chairwoman of the AWO. Her contributions were widely recognized.
The Arbeiterwohlfahrt has awarded the Marie Juchacz Plaque since 1969. The state of Rhineland-Palatinate has awarded the Marie Juchacz Women’s Prize since 2019.
Near Mehringplatz in Berlin, a memorial honors her. This Marie Juchacz Gedenkstein in Nuremberg stands as another testament to her legacy.
Take a moment to reflect on Marie Juchacz’s life. She fought for women’s rights and social justice. Her words and actions continue to inspire. She was a true pioneer. Remember her dedication as you pass by this stone.