Lions Peace Bench in Holzminden officially inaugurated

The first Lions Peace Bench in Germany: a visible symbol of international understanding and dialogue

On 17 May, we had the pleasure of Lions Club Friedrichshafen - Schloss Hersberg Cyber Be part of a very special moment: Germany’s first „Peace Bench“ – and the second in Europe – was officially unveiled in Holzminden. On the initiative of our partner club, the Lions Club Holzminden, this has created a central hub for people to meet and engage in intercultural exchange.

The Peace Bench is situated by the Holzminden ponds, right in front of the canteen – a lively meeting place for people of all ages. For us as the Cyber Club, which sees itself as an innovative part of Lions International, it was a great pleasure to be there with our own delegation and to celebrate this milestone together. A key formal highlight for us was the signing of the deed of donation to the town of Holzminden, which we carried out side by side with our friends from Holzminden.

A European network for respectful dialogue

The Peace Benches initiative has already brought together several European cities – from Novi Sad to Holzminden. The aim is clear: to create places where people can easily strike up conversations, break down prejudices and forge friendships.

We are particularly impressed by the digital element, which fits in perfectly with our philosophy as a Cyber Club: via a QR code on the back of the bench, passers-by can use their smartphones to access guides on respectful communication as well as further information from the global Lions network.

Values that bring us together

In his speech, Holzminden’s mayor, Christian Belke, also paid tribute to the importance of this initiative. The pond complex, as the town’s „green lung“, provides the ideal setting for bringing the values of the Lions movement to life in everyday life: Friendship, tolerance, a willingness to help and international understanding.

We at the Lions Club Schloss Hersberg are proud to have supported this project and are delighted to see this visible symbol of respectful coexistence!