Leipzig celebrates 35 years of peaceful revolution: light festival as the highlight
Leipzig celebrates 35 years of peaceful revolution: light festival as the highlight
35 years ago, on September 4, 1989, the people in the GDR began a new way of self -determination and change. The first Monday demonstration in Leipzig not only marked a significant date in GDR history, but also triggered a wave of events that finally led to the peaceful revolution. In honor of this memorable moment, the city of Leipzig has prepared a comprehensive program for the citizens.
In the coming weeks, the city will remind you of the events of 1989 with a number of events and exhibitions. The highlight of these celebrations is the light festival, which will take place on October 9th. This is an opportunity to appreciate the courage and commitment of the people who occur despite adversities for their freedom.
A look back at the events
The Leipzig museum director Anselm Hartinger describes his memories of this historical day in an interview with MDR Saxony. For him, the first Monday demo was a "decisive milestone for the peaceful revolution". Hartinger, who was then a student, describes how he wanted to experience the hustle and bustle of the autumn fair in the city, but at the same time perceived the striking presence of the police. This situation promised a mixture of excitement and discomfort that shaped him and many other people.
Hartinger remembers the atmosphere that was shaped by a mixture of hope and fear. The citizens conquered public space to raise their voices. It was a moment that was emotionally not only for Hartinger, but for all relatives of that time. "People leave niche and try to change society," he continues. This was the moment when the fear of repression fell more and more into the background.
The echo of society
Due to media reporting, in particular reporting from western Germany, it was possible to make the Monday demonstration a national event. The people in Leipzig, who demanded their rights and freedoms, became a symbol of the desire for change in the GDR. "A very moving moment," emphasizes Hartinger. The demonstrators were not isolated, but part of a greater movement that stretched over time and geography.
In the following weeks the demands extended beyond the mere willingness to leave. People demanded political and social changes; They wanted to be heard. These movements did not radicalize overnight, but were reinforced by constant growth in public support and international attention.
The anniversary program of the city of Leipzig is not only a look back at the events of 1989, but also a sign that the pursuit of freedom and justice is an ongoing concern. It invites citizens to think about the past and at the same time actively shape the future.