Treitschkestraße becomes Betty-Katz-Straße: Symbol of memory!

Treitschkestraße becomes Betty-Katz-Straße: Symbol of memory!

On October 1, 2025, the Treitschkestraße in Berlin-Steglitz was officially renamed Betty-Katz-Straße. This measure is not only a renaming of a street name, but a symbolic step to deal with the German past, especially with anti -Semitism. The unveiling of the new street sign took place at 2:30 p.m. on the corner of Betty-Katz-Straße/Harry-Bresslau-Park and attracted a wide interest of the public, as berlin.de reported.

The renaming was decided in the district council and supported by district councilor Urban Aykal. District Mayor Maren Schellenberg emphasized the importance of this renaming for the culture of remembrance and praised Betty Katz, who was born in 1872. Katz was the director of the Jewish blind home on Wrangelstrasse and was ultimately the victim of the Holocaust - she died in Theresienstadt on June 6, 1944.

Historical context

The original name "Treitschkestraße" is reminiscent of the historian Heinrich von Treitschke, who is considered the pioneer of political and cultural anti -Semitism. Treitschke is primarily known for his controversial statements, such as the quote "The Jews are our misfortune", which continues to throw a shadow on the street. In this context it becomes clear that the renaming also represents an answer to the growing anti -Semitic mood in Germany, which is repeatedly hostile by right -wing extremists.

The double signage with the old name, which is shown red, should remain for six months before it is removed. This should give residents the opportunity to get used to the new name, while at the same time pointing out the problematic history of the previous name. Local residents of Betty-Katz-Straße also have the option of making changes in their personal documents and vehicle certificates in the district's citizens' offices without a fee.

Culture of memory in Germany

The importance of the culture of remembrance in Germany is becoming increasingly relevant in the context of National Socialist crimes. The Holocaust Memorial Day will be committed annually on January 27, which is reminiscent of the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp. This is an opportunity for society to deal with the atrocities of National Socialism and to honor the victims. Loud dw.com There are over 300 memorials and Nazi documentation centers in Germany, in which pupils learn a lot about history.

However, despite these efforts, anti -Semitism is still a current problem in German society. The increase in anti -Semitic attacks and the debates about responsibility for the past illustrate that the culture of remembrance is more demanded than ever to deal with their deficits. Saba-Nur Cheema emphasizes the variety of memory cultures in Germany, which also focuses on the role of civil society.

The renaming of the Treitschkestraße into Betty-Katz-Straße is therefore not just a local event, but part of a greater social discourse on anti-Semitism, memory and commemoration in Germany.