International Conference
Dealing with the past, reaching the future
Historical memory in changing societies in South Africa and Germany after 1989
The year 1989 was not only one of great significance for Germany and the states of the former Eastern Bloc; in Africa, the political balances of power and social structures changed – most prominently in South Africa with the end of Apartheid.
The opening evening will take a poetic and political look at the South Africa of today and at the challenges which face the country 20 years after the fall of the Apartheid regime. The introductory lecture will be held by the South African poet, painter and member of the Anti-Apartheid Movement, Breyten Breytenbach. The musical part of the evening, provided by Madosini and Hans Huyssen, brings together the traditions of African narrative culture with classical instrumentation.
5.30 pm Opening
Welcoming address by Bernd Scherer, Haus der Kulturen der Welt
Greeting: Volker Rieke, Federal Ministry of Education and Research
Introduction: Susanne Stemmler, Haus der Kulturen der Welt
Introduction to the STIAS research project: Bernard Lategan, Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study
Opening speech: Prof. Breyten Breytenbach, New York University
Music: Hans Huyssen and Madosini
Followed by a reception
In cooperation with STIAS - Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (South Africa) , sponsored by the Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung (BMBF)