Germany Launches First National Day of Honor for Democracy in May
Germany's first nationwide Day of Honor for Democracy will take place this May. The initiative, launched by Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, aims to showcase and strengthen civic engagement. Partners like the German Postcode Lottery, ZEIT STIFTUNG BUCERIUS, and Aktion Mensch are backing the campaign to create a broad platform for democratic participation. The Day of Honor encourages citizens to organise or join local activities between May 16 and 31. While the official date is May 23, events can happen at any point during this period. Mayor Dirk Lukrafka has urged residents to take part, calling it a chance to actively support democracy.
To help fund these efforts, the German Foundation for Engagement and Volunteering (DSEE) is offering grants of up to €500 per initiative. Applications remain open until May 31, but funding is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants can register their activities or find local initiatives through the Engagement Finder at **www.ehrentag.de**, which is also linked via the City of Velbert's official portal. Two federal states, Thüringen and Niedersachsen, have already thrown their support behind the campaign. Thüringen has introduced a new *Ehrenamtsgesetz* (Volunteering Law) and increased funding, while Niedersachsen will award the *unbezahlbar & freiwillig* (Priceless & Voluntary) prize. Several other states are also participating, though specific details have not yet been announced.
The Day of Honor provides a visible platform for democratic engagement across the country. With financial support, digital tools, and backing from public figures, the initiative seeks to inspire wider participation. Organisers hope the events will highlight the importance of civic involvement in strengthening society.
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