German Culture Minister Calls October 7 a ‘Day of Pain’ for Victims
German Culture Minister Wolfram Weimer marked the second anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel by expressing deep solidarity with the victims and their families. He referred to October 7 as “a day of pain” for Israel and for Jewish communities worldwide. Weimer emphasized his thoughts were also with those still held hostage in Gaza, highlighting the ongoing suffering of their families.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Weimer acknowledged the profound grief experienced over the past two years. “For their families, these have been two unbearable years of fear and despair,” he stated. His remarks resonate with the broader sentiment of remembrance and mourning on this significant date.
Tribute to Victims of the Nova Music Festival
Weimer paid tribute to the young individuals who lost their lives during the attack on the Nova music festival, which took place near the Gaza border. The festival was a gathering meant to celebrate music and life, transforming into a scene of tragedy. “Culture lives through freedom; it creates spaces of diversity and connection,” Weimer noted, underscoring that the attack was not just on individuals, but on cultural expression itself.
He elaborated on the nature of the violence, stating that the festival had become a target due to “deeply rooted hatred.” By attacking a space dedicated to joy and creativity, the assailants aimed at undermining fundamental values that unite communities.
Upcoming Exhibition and Continued Reflection
To further commemorate this painful anniversary, Weimer is scheduled to visit an exhibition at Berlin’s former Tempelhof Airport, which documents the events surrounding the Hamas attack. This exhibition serves as a reminder of the impact of violence on cultural life and aims to foster discussions about resilience and healing.
The minister’s comments and actions reflect a commitment to honoring the memories of those lost while advocating for a culture of peace and understanding in the face of ongoing conflict. As the world reflects on the significance of this date, the hope remains for a future where such acts of violence become a thing of the past.
