ZEIT STIFTUNG BUCERIUS

Commitment arises where people come together

“The Ehrentag is what we all make of it.” This statement by the Federal President touches on something fundamental: commitment does not arise in the abstract, but where people come together, talk to each other, support each other, and take responsibility. We want to engage in sincere debate and take decisive action together. Because only when we debate and wrestle with each other, when different perspectives collide, when we value them and develop forms of genuine exchange – only then can we learn from each other and breathe life into our fundamental democratic values.

A day that shows how democracy is lived

On May 23, 2026—the anniversary of our Basic Law—this will become visible: people all over Germany will work together. Not because someone tells them to, but because they want to make their neighborhoods, their clubs, their schools, or their cities a little bit better.

Why we at ZEIT STIFTUNG BUCERIUS are involved

For us, this is a powerful image of democracy. Because commitment creates moments in which we defend freedoms, create space for action, and provide guidance where it is needed. And it gives people the support they need to work together in times when so much seems uncertain.

The Ehrentag thus brings together people who might otherwise never have come into contact with each other: committed members of associations, local government officials, companies, young and older people, people with different backgrounds. This coexistence cannot be taken for granted – it must be renegotiated every day in a vibrant democracy.

Together with the German Postcode Lottery, we are among the first funding partners of the Ehrentag. We are working to ensure that this idea grows into a strong tradition – a fixed day of the year that focuses on volunteering and highlights the commitment of many dedicated individuals.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)