An exhibition of historical documents and artefacts entitled “The other Russia. Memorial: The Fight for Historical Truth and Democracy,” organised by Zukunft Memorial, has opened in Weimar, Germany. The exhibition spotlights Memorial’s history and commitment to rebuilding a democratic Russia on a foundation of historical truth–as opposed to propaganda, hatred, and lies.

Another objective is to draw attention to government actions undertaken by Putin to suppress Memorial’s important work through bureaucratic and judicial measures, defamation campaigns, intimidation, criminalisation, and blatant repression. The exhibition sends an unmistakable signal that Memorial will not be intimidated and shall continue fighting for a democratic Russia against all odds. It shows that despite brutal repression, a different Russia still exists, and it needs our solidarity.

Original documents of repression and resistance from Memorial’s collections and archives form the centrepiece of the exhibition. Most of the archive was digitised with the support of the Zimin Foundation. In addition, ZF participated in the making of several exhibits, such as a museum replica of a prison-camp vest with sewn-in hand-written prayers; such vests were used for clandestine acts of worship. The exhibit also features an authentic camp violin with one string, a rarity

The exhibition is presented under the patronage of the German Minister of State and Federal Government Commissioner for East Germany, Carsten Schneider.

Open until January 6, more information read here

‍