Commemorative event in Rathenow: Courage of the Peaceful Revolution” honored!

Commemorative event in Rathenow: Courage of the Peaceful Revolution” honored!

It is November 9th, 2025, a day that is deeply rooted in German history. On this special date, a commemoration of the fall of the Berlin Wall and the peaceful revolution of 1989 will be held in Rathenow. Organized by the state parliament, state government and the state representative for coming to terms with the GDR dictatorship, the courage of the people in the GDR who initiated the end of the SED regime through peaceful protests is commemorated here. These memories are important not only to honor the past, but also to draw lessons for the present and future.

State Parliament President Ulrike Liedtke (SPD) in particular emphasizes how crucial the people's common goal was for the success of the peaceful revolution. She also expressed understanding for an early warning system in the East to counteract paternalism and ideological influence. In this context, Finance Minister Robert Crumbach (BSW) recalled that the events of November 9, 1989 are by no means self-evident. He highlighted the unshakable courage of the people who believed in freedom and unity.

Looking back at the fall of the Berlin Wall

The fall of the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989 was not just an event in itself, but the prelude to the destruction of the Iron Curtain and marked the end of transit restrictions in East Berlin. On this historic evening, Politburo spokesman Günter Schabowski announced the new travel regulations at a press conference, which he initially said would be valid from November 10th. But a misunderstood “immediately” led to crowds gathering at the borders and ultimately putting pressure on border officials to open the gates. At 10:45 p.m. the historic event finally broke into reality and people streamed to the West, where they were welcomed with flowers and champagne by West Berliners.

The experiences of November 9th are inextricably linked to the Monday demonstrations and the mass escapes in previous years. It all began with the courageous rebellion of the GDR citizens, who increasingly regularly stood up for their rights and freedoms. These events ultimately resulted in the largest demonstration in GDR history on November 4, 1989, where half a million people protested for freedom.

The importance of memories

During the commemoration event, processing representative Maria Nooke emphasized the importance of keeping the memory of this time of upheaval alive. The annual commemoration of the fall of the Berlin Wall should not only serve history, but also help to strengthen the values ​​of freedom and democracy in society. In Rathenow, where numerous protest rallies took place in November 1989, those present not only remembered the dark times, but also celebrated the achievements made possible by the courage of many people.

It is an excellent example of what can come from the desire for freedom and unity. This collection of memories is an important symbol and should never be forgotten. The events of 1989 are particularly relevant today because they remind us that freedom and democracy are not automatic - they must be maintained and defended.