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Commemoration of drug victims: Herne sets an example for departed souls
On July 21, 2025, Herne will commemorate deceased drug users with a moving event and appeals for social awareness.
Commemoration of drug victims: Herne sets an example for departed souls
On Monday, July 21, 2025, an impressive memorial event dedicated to the deceased drug users took place in Herne. The occasion was the “International Day of Remembrance for Deceased Drug Users”, which is also celebrated in other parts of Germany and beyond. In front of the memorial stone with the moving inscription “You are missing,” 16 crosses were placed to symbolically commemorate the deceased. In the midst of this serious backdrop, relatives, friends and numerous supporters gathered to mourn together and bring the issue into the public spotlight. The event was organized by AIDS-Hilfe Herne, Kadesch gGmbH, Youth Conflict and Drug Counseling (JKD), Café 22 and Blickwechsel 1a, as halloherne.de reported.
In her speech, Kristin Pfotenhauer, chairwoman of AIDS-Hilfe Herne, placed particular emphasis on the alarming increase in drug-related deaths under the age of 30. Her words echoed through the crowd, making it clear that the problem in our society can no longer be ignored. Also Mayor Dr. Frank Dudda took the time in his speech to emphasize the gap that every loss leaves in the hearts of relatives. Together with Silke Langkau, who gave a short devotion, the participants then created a flower arrangement with various beautiful flowers in memory of the deceased, which expressed what words often cannot.
Uniformity in language use
Looking into the future
The hope of the organizers and participants is that such commemorations will help raise awareness of the issue of addiction and the associated challenges in society. Uniform titles could not only strengthen the invitation to commemorate, but also simplify the handling of the topic and create a space for dialogue. The aim is for this concern to continue to be heard in the coming years and to enable further joint days of remembrance.
At a time when darkness often hovers over these people's stories, Remembrance Day remains a ray of hope and a sign of support, compassion and the need for change in society. We must remember: every loss has a story, and every story deserves to be heard.