On Saturday, Paris unveiled a memorial commemorating individuals persecuted for their sexual orientation during WWII and throughout history. Mayor Anne Hidalgo emphasized the significance of recognition in preventing future discrimination. Designed by artist Jean-Luc Verna, the memorial features a unique star-shaped structure that reflects the somber history of LGBTQ+ persecution. It eschews the yellow star used by Nazis, promoting inclusivity for all victims. The memorial serves not only as remembrance but also a platform for ongoing discussions about the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community today, underscoring the notion that rights must be continuously defended.
Recognition means to say 'this happened' and to say 'we don't want this to happen again'. We must fight against denial and trivialisation.
It is important that this memorial be not just a simple symbolic tribute, but a transmission tool, a public act of recognition and a space for questions about past discriminations but also those that continue today.
The downward facing black side of the star represents the burned bodies, the mourning but also the shadow, warning us that these things can happen again.
Rights are never won forever.
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