Democratic Chemnitz reads!

Photo: Daniel Dost

On 10 May 1933, the National Socialists' book burnings reached their climax: to the applause of tens of thousands, Nazi students publicly threw books and writings by unwelcome writers, artists and scientists into the fire. Much of the "beautiful" and humanist literature of the time was devoured by the flames.

On 10 May 2024, in memory of these barbaric events and as an important symbol of democracy and freedom of expression, Chemnitz residents will read "burnt" literature and courageous texts that defy hatred and exclusion. As in 2022 and 2023, democratic Chemnitz read in many voices and languages from sunrise to sunset at cultural and educational venues as well as in public spaces.

Readings were held here: Fleischerei Thiele, Stadtkirche St. Jakobi, Antonplatz 15, Lern- und Gedenkort Kaßberg-Gefängnis, Bürgerhaus City, Hartmannfabrik, Buchhandlung Lessing und Kompanie, Staatliches Museum für Archäologie (SMAC), Kunstsammlungen am Theaterplatz, Museum Gunzenhauser, Universitätsbibliothek TU Chemnitz, Stadtbibliothek Chemnitz - Zentralbibliothek im dasTietz, Kultourwerk Chemnitz Mobil & Städtische Musikschule.

Many thanks to all readers and listeners for your commitment!

European Capital of Culture The Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and Media Free State of Saxony European Capital of Culture

This project is co-financed by tax funds on the basis of the parliamentary budget of the state of Saxony and by federal funds from the Beauftragte der Bundesregierung für Kultur und Medien (Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and Media).