Memorial to LGBTQ+ victims of the Nazi regime unveiled in Paris
A memorial to LGBTQ+ victims of the Nazi regime – and to all LGBTQ+ people persecuted throughout history – was unveiled in the heart of Paris on Saturday, 17 May. The monument, a massive steel star designed by French artist Jean-Luc Verna, is located in France’s capital, in public gardens close to t
A memorial to LGBTQ+ victims of the Nazi regime – and to all LGBTQ+ people persecuted throughout history – was unveiled in the heart of Paris on Saturday, 17 May.
The monument, a massive steel star designed by French artist Jean-Luc Verna, is located in France’s capital, in public gardens close to the Bastille Plaza.
“Historical recognition means saying ‘this happened’ and ‘we don’t want it to happen again,'” Paris’ Mayor Anne Hidalgo said.
Verna, a visual artist and LGBTQ+ rights activist, said: “There’s a black side in front of us, forcing us to remember … At certain times of the day, it casts a long shadow on the ground, evoking the dangers looming over, sadly.”
The other side of the star, silvery, reflects the sky. It represents “the colour of time passing, with the Paris sky moving as quickly as public opinion, which can change at any moment,” Verna added.
Historians estimate between 5,000 and 15,000 people were deported throughout Europe by the Nazi regime during World War II because they were gay. This figure includes gay men, bisexual men and trans women. Lesbians, bi women and trans men were also targeted by the Nazis and were forced to wear black triangles for ‘anti social behaviour’.
