Gespräch mit Rolf Mützenich: Gustav Heinemann, der Frieden und die SPD

For the first time in the recent history of the Federal Republic of Germany, a Social Democrat—Gustav Heinemann—served as Federal President from 1969 to 1974. In his inaugural address on July 1, 1969, the newly elected head of state made clear the importance he attached to peace. With his oft-quoted words, “Itis not war that is the state of emergency, […] but peace is the state of emergency in which we must all prove ourselves,” Heinemann articulated a conception of peace that went beyond the mere absence of war and, at the same time, emphasized the responsibility of both policymakers and individuals. The 50th anniversary of his death provides an opportunity to reflect on his political legacy and the significance of peace, understanding, and the policy of détente for the present day.

OnOctober 29 at 6:00 p.m.,Rolf Mützenich, a member of the German Bundestag and former chair of the SPD parliamentary group, will speak at the Friedrich Ebert House withProf. Dr. Bernd Braun, executive director of the Reich President Friedrich Ebert Memorial Foundation. In addition to commemorating Gustav Heinemann, the discussion will focus on the issues of peace and détente as the core tenets of social democratic foreign policy. The current political situation and the state of the SPD will also be addressed.

All interested parties are cordially invited.

Space is limited. Registration is required using the registration form below or by email tofriedrich@ebert-gedenkstaette.de. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the event begins; otherwise, we will assign your seat to someone else. Ifyou are unable to attend on the day of the lecture, pleasenotifyusin a timely mannerby emailingfriedrich@ebert-gedenkstaette.de.