Brandenburg Memorial: Memorial for the victims of the euthanasia murders

Brandenburg Memorial: Memorial for the victims of the euthanasia murders

There is a place in Brandenburg an der Havel that tells of terrible history and unimaginable suffering. The building that still exists today is the last remnant of a memorial that commemorates the victims of the National Socialist euthanasia murders. Alf Düsterhöfft, a guide at this memorial, is today leading a group of young trainees through the dark history that is anchored here. While he normally works in a metal workshop, today he dedicates himself to the task of shedding light on the systematic murder of over 9,000 people who were killed in a gas chamber here between February and October 1940 under the pretext of breathing fresh air. These people were often mentally or physically disabled, mentally ill or of Jewish origin. The minorities who were considered “unworthy of living” were the target group of this disastrous program. rbb-online.de

One of the most cruel methods used was the deceptive arrangement of “shower rooms” into which the victims were sent. A doctor watched the process through a small window as carbon monoxide was introduced into the chamber. After death, the bodies were looted by SS or SA men and taken to adjacent ovens for cremation. The euthanasia program, part of the eugenic measures to restore 'racial integrity', caused over 9,000 patients to die near the prison in Brandenburg an der Havel, including children and young people who had to endure the cruel reality. brandenburg-euthanasia-sbg.de

The significance of the memorial

The memorial attracts up to 60 groups every year who want to learn more about the worst chapters of German history. Museum educator Christian Marx has developed a concept with the on-site guides that conveys the difficult topics clearly and tangibly. For example, Christel Kindel tells the story of Elvira Hempel, a girl who lived in a nursing home and was spared from the gas chamber - a fate whose causes are still unclear today.

The shocking experiences are brought to the participants in an impressive way during the guided tours. At the end of the tours, the guides collect feedback and impressions from the participants in order to reflect on the impact of their work. “There is hardly anything about euthanasia in our schools,” confirms Alf Düsterhöfft. It is all the more important that such memorials remain alive and give the victims a voice. He also expresses concern about the resurgence of neo-Nazis and highlights the need for humanity and respect.

Historical context of euthanasia

The euthanasia program was not just a brutal approach by the Nazis. It was the first organized killing of people with disabilities in the German Reich and represented the first planned massacre of Jewish people. According to historians, at least 70,273 people were murdered in the euthanasia facilities alone between 1940 and 1941, while the total number of victims is estimated at around 250,000. The National Socialists relied on sophisticated methods to cover up the killings. ushmm.org

Overall, the memorial in Brandenburg an der Havel remains an important place of remembrance that not only addresses past atrocities, but also addresses current social challenges. This devastating look at history reminds us to continue to fight for humanity and justice in the present.