37. Session of the Serbski Sejm: Educational autonomy

In the traditional first part of the plenary there was the discussion with residents and guests of the Sejm as a „travelling parliament“. It again became clear how different the conditions and challenges for the Sorbian/Wendish language, culture and identity are in the regions of Lusatia. The contributions and perspectives of two young artists from the Kolektiw Wakuum were very enriching. They encouraged the Serbski Sejm that also from the youth's point of view, cultural and educational autonomy is a worthwhile goal in order to successfully shape the future of our people in a self-determined way and with joy and fun. It was also discussed how the Sorbian/Wendish youth can contribute their important voice to the formation of political opinion and decision-making, for example in the draft of the state treaty and as candidates for the next Sejm election.

In the work on the content and the reports of the committees, the main issue was the ultimatum to the state and federal government to recognise the Sorbs/Wends as a people who, due to a long tradition of settlement since before colonisation and due to many traditions that have been retained, are to be granted the international rights from ILO 169. As there has been no sign of any concession from German politics so far, the corresponding steps, including an indictment at the European level, are now being consistently prepared.

Another focus was the ongoing work against the deliberate senseless destruction of the Sorbian cultural heritage of the village of Miłoraz/Mühlrose by the LEAG group. Legal action is now being taken here as well, since LEAG is already attacking the village's services of general interest by destroying infrastructure in the meantime.

In addition, the preparation of a water retreat was initiated, as the water balance threatens to become a major threat to Lusatia.

In the discussion, it was regretted that the motion to consistently strive for educational autonomy had not yet been approved at the Domowina general meeting. At the same time, it was welcomed that the teachers in particular wanted to be intensively involved in the discussion to qualify the proposal. In the Sejm, the idea was developed to submit an application together with partners to the Foundation for the Sorbian People to commission an institute to develop a concept for educational autonomy. The institute is to examine the design options, advantages and risks as well as the political framework and financing issues. All groups concerned, e.g. pupils and parents, teachers, associations, initiatives and politicians will be intensively involved in the process in a steering committee and in public discussion forums. The results will then form the basis for the decisions of the Sorbian/Wendish people regarding their educational autonomy.

At the end there was a joint visit to the open-air museum Lědy/Lehde.