Following a long, intense and very serious debate on 13 November 2003, the Board of Trustees of the Foundation Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, chaired by Bundestag President Wolfgang Thierse, decided to recom-mence construction with all the companies involved up to now and therefore to continue using the anti-graffiti products manufactured by Degussa. The chairman summarised the Boards discussion: »This decision was reached after consi-deration of the moral, historical and political aspects of the issue but also in the full knowledge of the technical, legal and financial consequences. At the same time it acknowledges our deepest respect for contrary votes and for the feelings of those whom this decision may offend.«
The members of the Board of Trustees confirmed their intention to erect the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe as a symbol of acceptance of historical responsibility on the part of society today. This also embraced companies such as Degussa which have a heavy burden to bear as a result of their history but which have made earnest endeavours to deal with that history in recent years.
»The past is an integral part of our society«, Wolfgang Thierse said. »We have to live with this part.« He described the ensuing debate as important and necessary; it is to be documented as part of the Memorials development process at the future Information Centre.
All the companies entrusted with the production, coating and erection of the stelae will recommence work without delay.
