Archives Day: Home in your luggage. The Germans of Eastern Europe and their migration story(ies)

The Association of German Archivists is organizing the Day of Archives for the 13th time in 2026. Numerous institutions will open their doors on this occasion and provide insights into their collections and activities - this year with a focus on the topic of "Old homeland - new homeland", which is particularly relevant in the context of the Germans of Eastern Europe. 'Home' is usually associated with a place - but what if you have to leave this place and can only take a few things with you? Various historical and contemporary refugee movements share this fate, including that of the Germans of Eastern Europe. As established minorities in countries such as the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary and Romania, they made up a significant part of the local population and cultural landscape. However, the Second World War brought flight and expulsion, forcing many to leave their 'old homeland'. They found a 'new home' in Germany as so-called displaced persons, but brought with them dialects, customs and habits that were foreign there. At the same time, they brought their memories of the past and hopes for the future with them; their story is one of endings and (new) beginnings, revealing the dynamics of European (forced) migration. As the Institute for Cultural Analysis of the Germans of Eastern Europe, we deal with the Germans in and from Eastern Europe, their regions of origin, their present in Germany and their cultural heritage. By providing an insight into our archive holdings and current projects, we therefore offer access to these topics and welcome interested parties who want to learn more about this area and/or who themselves have roots in Eastern Europe. The event is limited to 12 people due to the space available in the archives. Please register by Wednesday, March 04, 2026, with Jana Stöxen (e-mail:Jana.Stoexen(at)ikde.bwl(dot)de, phone:+49 761 70443-18).