Day of German Basic Law: Human dignity is inviolable
Human dignity is inviolable. This is affirmed both in the wisdom of Sikhi and in the German Basic Law. On May 23, a nationwide day of honor marking the birthday of the Basic Law is being celebrated in Germany for the first time. Citizens are invited to engage in fostering a life in dignity for all people in Germany. Credits: Pixabay.
Celebrating the Basic Law!
A broad alliance in Germany is committed to mark the Day of the Basic Law nationwide with a wide range of activities under the motto “Celebrating the Basic Law!”. Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier supports this initiative and has proclaimed May 23 as a day of honor. For the first time, a nationwide day of participation marking the birthday of the Basic Law is being celebrated. Under the motto “For you. For us. For everyone.”, citizens are invited to engage in fostering a life in dignity for all people in Germany.
The Basic Law stands for human dignity, democracy, and freedom, and opposes all forms of racism, extremism, and group-based hostility toward people. Article 1 states:
(1) Human dignity is inviolable. To respect and protect it is the duty of all state authority.
(2) The German people therefore acknowledge inviolable and inalienable human rights as the basis of every human community, of peace, and of justice in the world.
The Basic Law has made a decisive contribution to the successful reconstruction of the Federal Republic of Germany after National Socialism and protects values oriented toward the common good that are increasingly under threat today.
Information on how to participate in the day of honor is provided in the new brochure “May 23: Celebrating the Basic Law!”. It was published today by the Foundation Against Racism. The publication includes contributions by Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and personalities from a wide range of fields, including the fire service, trade unions, human rights organizations, religious communities, sports, and businesses. All of them reflect on the Basic Law and its significance for our society and future. Khushwant Singh, from the SikhiCouncil, writes:
“Sikhi regards humanity as one family. Especially those who are aware of their responsibility as sentient human beings before the Divine respect the dignity and personality of all, regardless of background. Strengthening the freedom of responsible expression of opinion and of religion, while at the same time reducing discrimination, hatred, and division, lies at the heart of both the Basic Law and a mindful and reflective way of life. Both create the foundation for a united, peaceful, and successful Europe.”
ਏਕੁ ਪਿਤਾ ਏਕਸ ਕੇ ਹਮ ਬਾਰਿਕ ਤੂ ਮੇਰਾ ਗੁਰ ਹਾਈ ॥ GGS, 611, M.5.
ਹਿੰਦੂ ਤੁਰਕ ਕੋਊ ਰਾਫਜੀ ਇਮਾਮ ਸਾਫੀ ਮਾਨਸ ਕੀ ਜਾਤਿ ਸਬੈ ਏਕੈ ਪਹਿਚਾਨਬੋ ॥ DG, 14
The presidents of the German Association of Cities and the Association of Towns and Municipalities, together with chairs of religious communities, are calling for activities based on the initiative “Celebrating the Basic Law!” that strengthen social cohesion. The associated 48-page brochure, edited by Jürgen Micksch, offers not only insightful texts but also practical suggestions for implementing the day of honor. It can be ordered from the Foundation Against Racism or downloaded as a PDF.
