When Etris Hashemi speaks, the horror and cruelty of the racist murders in Hanau become palpable—even three and a half years after the attacks.
Hashemi survived the attacks with serious injuries. He lost his younger brother, who died on the night of February 19, 2020, along with eight other people with immigrant backgrounds.
Now the survivor is standing on stage at the union convention. The IG Metall Youth invited him to take a stand against racism, hate, and violence.
Hashemi is using this opportunity to appeal to the delegates: “Don’t forget this terrible act,” he says. “What happened on February 19 should serve as a warning and a reminder of where hate, incitement, and right-wing populism can lead.”
From the Heart of Society
Acts like those in Hanau do not simply arise in the minds of individuals, but emerge from the very heart of society: “It is hate-inciting rhetoric that influences us all. Discrimination divides society, breeds hatred—and ultimately destroys democracy.”
IG Metall member Hashemi reports that he himself experienced a great deal of solidarity after the murders and realized what can be achieved when people work together. “We’ve accomplished a lot: We’ve created a new culture of remembrance in which the victims take center stage”—and not the perpetrators.
Hashemi wants to continue down this path of solidarity. And he says: “Showing solidarity means stepping in when colleagues are subjected to racist or anti-Semitic insults.”
Against Hate and Incitement in the Workplace
The IG Metall youth wing also believes that union members have a special responsibility. After all, racism occurs in everyday life—including in the workplace. There, it is important to “take a clear stand.”
Colleagues must bedefended against racismin the workplace: “Every time we take a stand, we help ensure that bar-talk slogans don’t turn into terrorist attacks.” The phrase “Nip it in the bud” means taking action right now.
Finally, the delegates at the union convention send a united message. Everyone in the hall gathers together. And the message on hundreds of T-shirts is unmistakable: “Diversity makes us strong.”
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