Delve into the compelling history of 'Das Lichtermeer 1993' exhibition at the House of Austrian History. This significant display chronicles Austria's largest demonstration, a powerful collective stand against racism and exclusion. Visitors can explore key objects and understand the enduring impact of this pivotal moment in civil society. Learn how the protest united diverse groups and led to the formation of human rights organizations.
Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Das Lichtermeer 1993: Ein prägendes Zeichen der Zivilgesellschaft at House of Austrian History in Vienna
This exhibition commemorates the 'Sea of Lights' demonstration of 1993, the largest protest in Austria's Second Republic, which stood against racism and exclusion. It showcases objects from the event and highlights its significance as a powerful display of civil society engagement.
Commemorating the 30th anniversary of the 'Lichtermeer' (Sea of Lights) demonstration on January 23, 1993, this exhibition at the House of Austrian History presents objects from what was the largest protest in Austria's Second Republic. Around 300,000 people gathered on Vienna's Heldenplatz and in other state capitals to set a clear sign against racism and exclusion, prompted by the FPÖ's 'Austria First' popular initiative which advocated for immigration stops and discriminatory laws against migrants. The event, subtitled 'An Event of a Wonderful Kind,' was developed by a small group that successfully mobilized broad civil society support from across the political spectrum, uniting church, left-wing, and centrist groups in a novel political cultural movement. Beyond critiquing the popular initiative, the movement addressed general racist tendencies in society and criticized the tightening of laws for migrants under the Social Democratic-Green coalition government. The 'Lichtermeer' marked Heldenplatz as a site of democratic civil society, with more participants than the 1938 'Anschluss' rally. The popular initiative's demands were later partially implemented by various parties, and the movement led to the formation of the organization SOS Mitmensch, which continues to advocate for human rights.
The page mentions 'Tickets auswählen' (Select Tickets) and provides options for 'Eintritt Erwachsene' (Adult Admission) and 'Jahreskarte' (Annual Pass), indicating that tickets are required and available for purchase. It also includes details about group tickets and personalizing an annual pass.
Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Das Lichtermeer 1993: Ein prägendes Zeichen der Zivilgesellschaft at House of Austrian History in Vienna
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