Omas gegen Rechts, or Grandmothers Against the Right, is making headlines as the group prepares for significant advocacy against far-right extremism across Germany. This grassroots initiative, originating from Vienna and spreading to various German cities, demonstrates the courage and commitment of elderly women who are determined to stand up against racism and discrimination.
Founded in 2020, Omas gegen Rechts began with just five members who were inspired by the original group established in Vienna. Cornelia Schiemanowski, one of the founding members, explained, "We wanted to take action against the growing rightward shift in politics and society." Now, approximately 25 active women meet monthly to discuss their efforts and plan future actions.
The motivation behind their activism is abundantly clear. Over the past five years, the group has witnessed numerous instances of racism, anti-Semitism, and other ideologies leading to horrific outcomes, such as the Hanau and Halle shootings, along with various attacks on political offices, including one incident in Oberhausen involving arson. Such realities have spurred their mission to push back against hate.
The federal criminal agency reported 113 deaths due to right-wing violence from 1990 to 2020, though non-governmental organizations suggest the real number could be far greater. Schiemanowski noted, "The far-right is now more organized than ever, enabling them to cater to all forms of prejudice with their propaganda. The crises of recent years have provided fertile ground for scapegoat politics."
Among their prominent concerns is the rise of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which Schiemanowski labeled as openly endorsing remigration—a euphemism for the mass expulsion of migrants. The Omas fear the return to ideologies reminiscent of the painful histories experienced by their generation. Schiemanowski stated, "We have deep memories of suffering under dictatorships and wars, which makes us vehemently oppose any form of exclusion or societal division.”
The group engages actively with their community to preserve memories of the past and educate about the dangers of right-wing extremism. They honor victims of the Nazi regime and modern attackers, working closely with local initiatives, such as the Gedenkhalle Oberhausen, to place stumbling stones (Stolpersteine) to commemorate those lost.
Looking forward, the Omas intend to amplify their voice against the AfD and similar groups as Germany approaches federal elections on February 23, 2025. They are determined to make their presence felt at these forthcoming events to alert voters against right-wing campaigns. "We may be old, but we are not silent. We aim to promote democracy and remind citizens of the foundational values of tolerance and equality,” Schiemanowski asserted.
Scheduled protests planned include demonstrations at the AfD New Year's reception on January 10, 2025, at Northeim, where the Omas will rally against far-right gatherings. The group emphasizes their commitment to democratic values and social standards established by previous generations, calling for solidarity and mobilization from all citizens.
On January 11, 2025, Omas gegen Rechts will engage the public with a human chain event titled “Side by Side for Democracy and Solidarity” across Wuppertal. They are calling for community participation, promoting tolerance and unity against division. Omas are serious about ensuring their stance against extremism is known, stating firmly, "We will not allow the AfD to manipulate our democratic processes and undermine societal cohesion.”
The thriving connections Omas gegen Rechts have built extend beyond Oberhausen, with collaborative engagements with other anti-fascist groups across many German cities, illustrating their commitment to unite against hatred and bigotry.
The overarching message from Omas gegen Rechts is clear: they represent not just senior women but voices for future generations. Schiemanowski emphasized, "It is our duty to speak out, ensuring our children and grandchildren inherit a society grounded in respect and equality, rather than fear and exclusion. Together, we gather monthly to prepare and strategize, knowing our collective effort is impactful."
While they continue to face resistance, the movement is gaining traction, providing hope and indicating a rising need for proactive measures against far-right ideologies. Their message resonates universally: as the election draws near, solidarity against division and hatred remains more important than ever. Such efforts signal not just resistance to extremism but fortify the democratic values they cherish.