Reader correspondences

In the heart of Düsseldorf, a heated debate is unfolding over the proposed review and potential renaming of streets named after historical figures with ties to colonialism.

The catalyst for this debate is the "Kommission für die Überprüfung und Umbenennung von Straßen und öffentlichen Gebäuden" (Commission for the Review and Renaming of Streets and Public Buildings), a group tasked with assessing the significance of these figures in light of modern sensitivities.

R. Höller, a local resident, has expressed opposition to the renaming process, suggesting that all street signs with politicians from World War I must also be removed, and questioning if the process is politically controlled. Christine Wieczorek, another resident, shares similar concerns, citing the cost of sign replacement and suggesting the money could be used for other purposes.

Julius von Soden, a former governor of two colonies, Cameroon (1885-1890) and German East Africa (1891-1893), has been assessed by the commission as little or not burdened by his colonial past. However, the Working Group "Düsseldorf postcolonial" fears that the board underestimates the scope and consequences of colonialism for the present.

The Working Group, which includes Rheinland global, the Initiative for New Names, Forum Freies Theater (FFT), Women's Counseling Center, and One World Network NRW, has welcomed the recommendation to review Düsseldorf street names and rename streets named after colonial actors. They are advocating for a broad participatory process to discuss the significance of colonialism and continuing colonial continuities for Düsseldorf.

Michael Storek, a local resident, has criticized the potential renaming of streets that honor deserving Germans, questioning the legitimacy of the commission making the decision. Meanwhile, Andreas Böhmer has suggested renaming the commission as 'tax money waster' and maintaining the status quo.

Horst Bischoff, another resident, proposes keeping the street name 'Münchhausenweg' with an explanatory addition to maintain the popularity of the travel adventurer in Düsseldorf, while avoiding unnecessary formalities and expenses.

It's important to note that Soden, during his tenure in Cameroon, oversaw numerous military expeditions into the interior, costing hundreds of lives, and large areas of land were expropriated. Additionally, it was discovered that Soden was a beneficiary of his own policy, as he was a shareholder in these plantations.

The opinions expressed in the reader letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial staff. The editorial staff reserves the right to make sense-based cuts. Anonymous contributions will not be considered.

This debate serves as a reminder of the complexities and controversies that can arise when confronting our past, and the importance of open dialogue and understanding in navigating these issues.