Institut für Geschichte und Soziales Luxemburg

Some stories must never be forgotten. The book "Noch heute quält mich die Erinnerung…" recounts the life of Gerd Klestadt, survivor of the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, through a deeply moving collaboration with historian Kathrin Mess. It gives voice to a living memory — fragile yet lucid — that spans generations and calls on our collective conscience.

A friendship turned mission

The origin of the project is deeply personal. Kathrin Mess, a close friend of Gerd Klestadt for over 20 years, accompanied him during many of his public talks. These moments — and above all, one symbolic gesture — laid the foundation for the book: the famous Murmeln (glass marbles) that Gerd would hand out to his audience, most often to young people.

“These marbles, ” he would say, “are all different, like people. And yet, they are all marbles. Just like we are all human.”

This small object was meant to remind them never to look away when faced with injustice. A symbol of tolerance, courage, and humanity.

An essential testimony — published just in time

The project came to fruition: the book was published, accompanied by an evolving online platform where excerpts from filmed interviews and educational materials for schools are being made available.

Tragically, Gerd Klestadt passed away shortly after the book’s release, before he could begin the planned school tour. The author has since taken up the mantle, continuing the memory work in schools and through the media.

“Gerd used to say: ‘As long as we speak of the dead, they are not dead.’ This book is his voice — still alive.”

A moving launch and a powerful reception

On December 10, 2024, more than 200 people gathered at Neumünster Abbey for the book’s presentation — with Gerd Klestadt in attendance. It was an evening filled with emotion, transmission, and gratitude. Since then, the book has been widely praised by the press and well received in educational and civic circles.

Universal lessons, and a call for vigilance

This work of remembrance reminds us that every young person can be an agent of change. Gerd Klestadt often said: “The youth of today are the conductors of tomorrow.”

His message — more urgent than ever at a time when exclusionary ideologies are on the rise in Europe — calls for active vigilance, and a culture of peace and social justice.

A commitment for tomorrow

The project continues: the goal is to translate the book into French and English, to make it accessible to a broader audience. The team also plans to develop educational modules linked to the book, so they can be integrated into history, civics, or human rights education curricula.

“As long as we tell these stories, they are not lost. And as long as we remember, we can resist.”

A creation rooted in Luxembourg

It is important to Kathrin Mess to emphasize that this book is also a deeply Luxembourgish project. The graphic design was carried out with great care and sensitivity by Aaron Gerber, and printing was entrusted to a long-standing Luxembourgish partner, ensuring outstanding quality.

“I always work with local providers. It’s a conscious choice — to keep the value created here, in the country.”