Potsdam intends courageous voices: 72 years after the popular uprising!

Potsdam intends courageous voices: 72 years after the popular uprising!

Gedenkstätte Lindenstraße, 14467 Potsdam, Deutschland - On June 17, 2025, the state capital Potsdam, together with the state government of Brandenburg, commemorates the popular uprising of June 17, 1953, which is still an important chapter in German history today. Mayor Burkhard Exner opened the central memorial event in the Lindenstraße memorial, where he made it clear that our freedom is not a matter of course. "People in the GDR were brave against injustice and oppression," he emphasized, at the same time demanding vigilance to the questioning of the questioning of democratic values. This can be seen as a reminder, not only on this day, but in every moment of our lives.

The popular uprising, which is the first mass survey in the area of ​​power of the Soviet Union, was an expression of the massive dismissal of the population about the living conditions in the GDR. Over a million people demonstrated in more than 700 cities and municipalities, including Potsdam, Rathenow and Brandenburg an der Havel. What people demanded in the streets and places was no less than freedom and an end to state arbitrariness. The insurgents strived for democracy, better living conditions and a resignation of the government.

bloody suppression of the protests

Unfortunately, these peaceful efforts were bloodily reflected on the Soviet military and the People's Police on June 17, 1953. Serious numbers prove the brutality of repression: more than 50 people lost their lives, and around 15,000 were arrested, many of them in the prison on Lindenstrasse. J

The uprising was the result of decades of injustices. In previous years, the Socialist Unity Party (SED) had started to enforce the socialist structure on the Soviet model, which, in addition to nationalization, also led to faults in the economic system. The resentment of the population grew, especially when the SED decided in May 1953, an increase in work standards that led to an industrial action.

a program for memory

The memorial event today at 3 p.m. is accompanied by a play of the inclusive ensemble together, entitled "Lieriken". The event is supported musically by the saxophonist Christian Raake. Deputy Prime Minister Robert Crumbach will also hold a commemorative speech and share his thoughts on the importance of this day with those present.

The memory of the popular uprising is more than just looking back on the past. It also offers an opportunity to think about how important it is to defend our democratic values ​​and stand up for freedom. As Exner correctly stated, we have to be vigilant - especially in times when the word freedom is often overused and democratic principles are no longer in the foreground.

In 2023 there was already a similar memorial event that reminded of the same events. So it shows how firmly anchored the memory of the popular uprising in our society and how important it is that we come together as a community to pay respect for the victims of back then and to draw the teachings for the present. Overall, June 17, 1953 is not just a date, but an urgent call to stand up for our freedom.

For more information about the popular uprising and the memorial events, you can report the reporting on CityReport.pnr24-online.de href = "https://www.getenkstaette-lindenstrasse.de/blog/2024/17/gänken-an-die-poter-volksstandststands-vom-17-juni-1953/"> Lindenstraße more learn about history and commemoration. In addition, Federal Center for Political Education A comprehensive summary of events and its effects on German history.