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Berlin street renamed after years of controversy

Nehal Johri
August 28, 2025

Berlin's "Mohrenstrasse" has been at the heart of intense political debate for decades. Postcolonial activists and organizations say the word "Mohr" ("moor") is derogatory and racist towards Black people. They have been advocating for years for the city to rename the controversial street name, and earlier this month their wish was finally fulfilled.

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Berlin has renamed Mohrenstrasse Anton-Wilhelm-Amo-Strasse. The change follows decades of activism and reflects a broader reckoning with colonial history and racismin Germany. The renaming ceremony coincided with UNESCO’s Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition.

The renaming campaign gained momentum after Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, highlighting the need for inclusive memory culture in Germany.

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