On January 16, 2025, the AmerikaHaus NRW e.V. together with its partners hosted a screening and discussion of the documentary “Audre Lorde: The Berlin Years 1984 to 1992” in Cologne. The documentary explores Lorde’s role in inspiring Black German women to find their voices and organize for their rights. Through archival footage, interviews, and personal accounts, the film provides an intimate look at Lorde’s impact on intersectional feminism and Black activism in Germany.

The screening was followed by an engaging and thought-provoking discussion with Dagmar Schultz, Director and Producer of the film, Abenaa Aqyeiwaa Adomako, Co-Founder of Initiative Schwarze Menschen Deutschland and Author, and Glenda Obermuller, Co-Founder of Sonnenblumen Community Development Group e.V. and Theodor Wonja Michael Bibliothek. The panelists shared impactful stories about Audre Lorde’s activism, her legacy, and how she affected their lives on a personal level. Schultz reflected on her time with Lorde, explaining how she embodied several different identities as summarized in her self-description as a “Black, feminist, lesbian poet.” She talked about how Lorde challenged white women to recognize their privilege and actively work to dismantle systemic inequalities. Adomako expanded on this, sharing how Lorde’s presence and support made her feel like she truly belonged. For her, activism wasn’t just a political act—it became a personal lifeline, giving her and many others a sense of empowerment. Obermuller emphasized the importance of preserving Black history and keeping strong community networks alive, warning that without these efforts, history could fade away.

While they acknowledged the progress made in Germany, especially in Cologne’s community networks, the panelists agreed that there is still a lot of work to be done. The discussion made clear that Audre Lorde’s work remains highly relevant to today’s struggles for racial, gender, and social justice. Her impact on intersectionality and activism continues to inspire new generations to build inclusive communities, challenge inequalities, and keep history alive.

We cordially thank our panel and moderator, Laura Hartmann, as well as our partners: University of Cologne, Faculty of Arts and Humanities at the University of Cologne, Gender Studies at the University of Cologne, AStA of the University of Cologne, American Studies at the University of Cologne, Theodor Wonja Michael Bibliothek and the Sonnenblumen Community Development Group e.V. This event was kindly supported by the Federal Foreign Office.