The University Issues a Call to Chemnitz
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Photo: Jacob Müller
26 and 27 August 2019 mark the first anniversary of last summer’s terrible events that shook and shocked Chemnitz. The violent death of Daniel H. and the ensuing attacks and riots – unjustifiable, xenophobic and racist – have not been forgotten, and to this day are still deeply concerning.
In an open letter (mytuc.org/dgxc), Prof. Dr. Gerd Strohmeier, President of Chemnitz University of Technology, and Prof. Dr. Maximilian Eibl, Vice President for Academic and International Affairs at Chemnitz University of Technology, very clearly laid out the university’s response to the events – Chemnitz University of Technology stands for open-mindedness, diversity and peaceful co-existence and strongly condemns violent crime, xenophobia and racism. The letter went on to state that the university is aware of its responsibility to the region and will continue to strongly stand for principles of democracy, rule of law and tolerance.
In May 2019, the Chemnitz University of Technology Senate made a strong pledge for an open-minded, democratic Chemnitz, in light of the results of the local and European elections (mytuc.org/rhqc). In this statement, the Senate made it clear that Chemnitz University of Technology offers a home to people from all over the world, and researchers, employees and students, regardless of where they come from, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, or other lifestyle choices, are always welcome. In addition, it expressed the wish that this open and accepting climate prevails not only on campus, but in the city as a whole, and as such, that all members of the city council continue to argue for an open urban society that is free from discrimination and advocates for the fundamental values of a free, democratic and open society.
We are proud of the scientific, economic and cultural achievements of Saxony as a whole, and Chemnitz in particular – achievements that would not have been possible without freedom, democracy, open-mindedness and tolerance. At the same time, however, we are deeply affected by the various events and developments that stand in opposition to these indispensable core values. With this being said, we urge all people who live in the Free State of Saxony, in particular all decision-makers, to stand up against xenophobia, racism, right-wing extremism, threats against freedom and threats against democracy, and stand up with courage and engagement for freedom, democracy, open-mindedness and tolerance.
Office of the President, Chemnitz University of Technology
A video clip of the #wirsindchemnitz online campaign: http://bit.ly/wirsindchemnitz
(Article: Mario Steinebach / Translation: Jeffrey Karnitz)
Matthias Fejes
23.08.2019
