Day of remembrance for the victims of flight and expulsion
June 20, Friday
Why it was established
* The day was established by a government decree on August 27, 2014, and was first observed in 2015.
* It is commemorated to honor the memory of victims of mass expulsion and flight, especially ethnic Germans displaced after World War II, as well as all people forced to leave their homeland.
* It is aligned with the UN World Refugee Day, which strengthens the international dimension of remembrance.
What happens on this day
* Official events are organized at federal and regional levels, including moments of silence and wreath-laying ceremonies.
* Government institutions raise flags and wear mourning ribbons.
* Public readings of eyewitness accounts, exhibitions, themed lectures, and educational programs are held.
* In some regions (for example, Baden-Württemberg), commemorative events involving the public and politicians are customary.
Why this day matters today
* It serves as a reminder of one of the largest humanitarian crises of the 20th century, when millions of people, many ancestors of today’s citizens, were expelled and lost their homeland.
* It helps foster civic awareness based on empathy and respect for refugees.
* It remains relevant in the context of current migration challenges, including assistance to refugees from Ukraine and other countries.