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Berlin Renames Streets to Honor Diverse Historical Figures

Berlin is transforming its streets to reflect its commitment to diversity and history. New names honor figures like Cornelius Fredericks and Anton Wilhelm Amo, promoting inclusivity and recognition.

Graffiti is on the train. These are cables. Background there are houses with windows.
Graffiti is on the train. These are cables. Background there are houses with windows.

Berlin Renames Streets to Honor Diverse Historical Figures

Berlin is in the midst of a significant transformation, with many streets being renamed to honor figures of resistance or social responsibility and replace historically burdened names. This change aims to reflect the city's commitment to acknowledging its past and promoting inclusivity.

One such renaming took place in December 2022, when Lüderitzstraße in the African Quarter was renamed Cornelius-Fredericks-Straße. This honors Cornelius Fredericks, a leader of the '!Aman' people, who played a central role in the military resistance against German colonial rule in Namibia. Similarly, Nachtigalplatz in the same area was renamed Manga-Bell-Platz, commemorating Rudolf and Emily Duala Manga Bell, leaders executed in the fight against German colonial power in 1914.

Earlier, in August 2020, the Mitte district assembly decided to rename Mohrenstraße to Anton-Wilhelm-Amo-Straße. This change was implemented by the district office in May 2021, honoring Anton Wilhelm Amo, the first African to hold a professorship in Europe. Other renamings include Wissmannstraße in Grunewald, renamed Baraschstraße in February 2022 to honor Jewish couple Irene and Arthur Barasch, and Hofjägerallee in Tiergarten, set to be renamed Helmut-Kohl-Allee to commemorate former chancellor Helmut Kohl.

Upcoming renamings include Petersallee in Wedding, officially renamed Maji-Maji-Allee and Anna-Mungunda-Allee after a long legal dispute, and Nettelbeckplatz in Wedding, planned to be renamed Martha-Ndumbe-Platz after the parliamentary summer break. These changes reflect Berlin's ongoing effort to recognize and honor diverse historical figures who have contributed to the city's rich tapestry.

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