Federal President Steinmeier to Address Commemoration of Racist Attack at Munich OEZ
Munich, Bavaria, Germany – Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier is scheduled to deliver a speech at the commemoration ceremony marking the tenth anniversary of the racist attack at the Olympia-Einkaufszentrum (OEZ) in Munich. The event, which remembers the nine victims of the 2016 tragedy, will be held on July 22, 2026. The President’s participation was confirmed by a spokesperson, following initial reports by the “Süddeutsche Zeitung.”
The attack, which deeply impacted the collective memory of the city, saw an 18-year-old right-wing extremist open fire in the vicinity of the shopping center on July 22, 2016. The assailant killed nine people and injured five others before taking his own life. The incident triggered widespread panic in Munich, leading to further injuries.
Initiative “München erinnern” Organizes Commemorative Events
The “München erinnern” (Munich Remembers) initiative, comprising relatives, survivors, and supporters, has organized a series of events leading up to the anniversary. These include a rally scheduled for July 19 at Gärtnerplatz. The initiative aims to keep the memory of the victims and the attack alive, while also sending a strong message against racism.
In 2018, the arms dealer who sold the attacker the pistol and hundreds of rounds of ammunition via the darknet was sentenced to seven years in prison.
Details of the 2016 Attack
The racist motives behind the attack were a key focus of the subsequent investigations. The perpetrator’s actions led to a city-wide emergency response and a period of intense grief and reflection for Munich’s residents. The incident underscored the devastating consequences of hate-fueled violence and the importance of vigilance against extremism.
The commemoration ceremony will serve as a moment of remembrance for those lost and a reaffirmation of the community’s commitment to fighting racism and promoting tolerance. The presence of Federal President Steinmeier highlights the national significance of this tragedy and the ongoing efforts to address its legacy.
Further details regarding the specific timing and additional participants of the main commemoration ceremony are expected to be released closer to the date.
Source: https://www.abendzeitung-muenchen.de/muenchen/bundespraesident-steinmeier-spricht-bei-gedenken-an-anschlag-im-muenchner-oez-art-1141570
