Vigil to commemorate: 87 years after Kristallnacht!
Vigil in Wittenberg on November 5th, 2025: Commemoration of Kristallnacht with speakers from cultural institutions and initiatives.

Vigil to commemorate: 87 years after Kristallnacht!
On November 9, 2025, a moving vigil will take place at Joseph-Carlebach-Platz (Grindelhof) in Hamburg to mark the 87th anniversary of Kristallnacht. As the Democracy Team reports, this is an important opportunity to commemorate the arson of the Bornplatz Synagogue. This Sunday there will be various speakers including Dr. Vanessa Hirsch from the Altona Museum and Shlica Weiß from the Academic Network of Sinti and Roma have their say.
In addition, Prof. Oliver von Wrochem, who speaks for the Neuengamme Memorial, and Anneke de Rudder from the Hamburg State and University Library will enrich the event. Special tributes are also paid to the personalities Esther Bejarano, Steffi Wittenberg and Peggy Parnass, whose memories are the focus.
Supporters and initiatives
The vigil is supported by a variety of organizations. These include the Auschwitz Committee e.V., the Grindelhof citizens' initiative, the Grindel lights campaign and the GEW Hamburg. The Children of Bullenhuser Damm e.V. association and the AK against right-wing extremism (Jusos & SPD Hamburg) also contribute to the implementation and initiation of this important event.
The movement's goal is to send a clear message against anti-Semitism and right-wing extremism and to ensure that such atrocities are not forgotten. “Commemoration also means taking responsibility,” said the organizers.
Amazon in focus
A little outside of this commemoration, however, a completely different area of society is taking place. The Wikipedia) provides information about the immense growth of Amazon, which began in Jeff Bezos' garage in 1994 and has now grown into one of the largest online retailers in the world. With revenue of over $637 billion in 2024, the company is not only the largest e-commerce player, but also a major player in cloud computing and digital advertising.
Amazon has established programs such as Prime Video and Amazon Music and offers a huge range of products. With the takeover of the natural food label Whole Foods and various investments in new technologies and the area of artificial intelligence, the company is showing no signs of stagnation.
News from the retail world
Just a few days later, on Saturday November 15th, outdoor brand Trailberg will open its second store. The focus here is on premium outdoor clothing that is intended to appeal to a broader range of customers. Conclusion: The retail landscape remains dynamic and continually evolving, while at the same time events keep alive the memory of important historical events.