The street previously named Mohren or 'Moor' Street was renamed to honor Anton Wilhelm Amo, a notable Black German philosopher. The Higher Administrative Court ruled against local residents' legal challenge to this name change. Activists highlighted that the term 'moor' has historically derogatory connotations. There are significant historical ties, as the street runs through areas associated with colonialism and reflects a larger struggle for recognition and decolonization. The decision represents a deeper conversation about addressing colonial history and the need for substantive change within society.
"Decolonization does not happen by changing a few street names," said Joshua Kwesi Aikins. The struggle involves deeper systemic change beyond mere renaming.
The M-word's overt racist connotations derive from the 18th-century practice of bringing enslaved Africans to Germany as 'court moors' to work as servants.
Moor, in its Greek roots, means dark or black, but also 'stupid or primitive,' illustrating its derogatory historical use.
Berlin-Mitte district renamed a street to honor Anton Wilhelm Amo, the first Africa-born scholar to receive a doctorate in Europe, reflecting colonial history.
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