Every citizen can request the renaming of a street or propose a name for a future street name. This can be done either at the Street and Green Space Department or through the District Assembly (BVV).
Renaming a street is always a case-by-case decision. In the best case the street is not only renamed, but also named after a person in connection with the discrimination associated with the existing name. For example, streets with colonial names could be named for resistance fighters against colonialism. Not every street has to be renamed. In some cases only an additional information sign is needed. In our map we try to showcase the latest demands of activist initiatives regarding street names and monuments and do our best to keep this updated.
Do you have suggestions or questions? Let us know at deinehilfe@strassenlaerm.berlin
“Berlin’s urban and commemorative landscape has amongst others been shaped by the Brandenburg-Prussian enslavement trade (from 1680), the imperial German colonial empire (from 1884) as well as positive references back to these during the Nazi era. It is significant that especially the colonial propaganda of the Nazi regime continues to have a partly unbroken effect in Berlin’s cityscape up to this day.”
“Street names cannot just be changed. We need a change of perspective. Instead of paying homage to colonial criminals, tribute must be given to those who fought against colonial tyranny.”