Mitte celebrates renaming: Mohrenstrasse becomes Anton-Wilhelm-Amo-Straße!

Mitte celebrates renaming: Mohrenstrasse becomes Anton-Wilhelm-Amo-Straße!

Anton-Wilhelm-Amo-Straße, 10115 Berlin, Deutschland - Today, a historical decision regarding the renaming of Mohrenstrasse in Berlin was implemented. District Mayor Stefanie Remlinger informed in a press release that the street will now bear the name Anton-Wilhelm-Amo-Straße. This was done in accordance with the rejection of an application to admit the appeal by the Higher Administrative Court of Berlin-Brandenburg. The judgment of the Berlin Administrative Court of July 6, 2023 is legally binding and the renaming can be finally carried out. This is an important step in dealing with the colonial past, as Remlinger emphasizes.

For many, especially in the black community of Berlin, the term “Mohr” is perceived as racist and dehumanism. The renaming is not only a reaction to this perception, but also a clear positioning against discriminatory names. Remlinger expressed her relief about the decision and sees the renaming as a progress in dealing with the colonial history of Germany.

The philosopher Anton Wilhelm Amo

Anton Wilhelm Amo, the namesake of the former Mohrenstrasse, was born around 1703 in today's Ghana and kidnapped to Germany. He is considered the first known African philosopher and lawyer in Germany. The district council of Berlin-Mitte had already voted for the renaming in August 2020, on the grounds that the old name is "discriminatory and harms Berlin's reputation".

The renaming was initiated by the district office in April 2021 after residents were previously dismissed against this decision. The judicial control in such complaints is severely restricted, and the Higher Administrative Court found that road renovations are general orders in the public interest. Your current decision is therefore inconceivable, which resulted in positive feedback about this decision.

the social context

The renaming of Mohrenstrasse is in the context of a broader debate about dealing with the colonial heritage in Germany. Similar discussions take place in various Berlin districts. The Neukölln district council recently approved the renaming of a street named after Hermann von Wissmann. This trend is supported by scientists such as Africanist Marianne Bechhaus-Gerst, who emphasizes that streets that the colonial criminals honor should no longer exist.

Bechhaus-Gerst calls for more educational offers about colonial history, since many people, especially in schools, are not sufficiently informed. It also suggests attaching additional boards on street signs to reflect the colonial past. A positive change in consciousness in society is recognizable, but sustainable conversations and solutions are required to change the topic of discrimination and racism.

In exchange with various civil society organizations, including the initiative of black people in Germany (ISD) and Each One Teach One (Eoto) e.V., the district office is planning a ceremonial inauguration of the Anton-Wilhelm-Amo-Straße. This is another sign of the progressive change in dealing with the history and identity of Berlin.

The controversial debate about road renovations is far from complete, but the renaming of Mohrenstrasse to Anton-Wilhelm-Amo-Straße could be seen as a turning point in the public perception of colonial heritage and racism in Germany.

For more information, please visit the following articles: berlin.de , ZDF today , rbb24