IG Metall Pforzheim is commemorating its 177th anniversary.

IG Metall Pforzheim is commemorating its 177th anniversary.

In a poignant ceremony last Friday, IG Metall Pforzheim recognised 177 of its members for their long-standing commitment to the union. The event, held at the Ispringen Turn and Festival Hall, celebrated the loyalty of members who have been part of the organisation for 40, 50, 60, and even 70 years.

Among the honourees were Marianne D'Agnano, former works council chair at Harman Becker in Ittersbach, and Dieter Kiesling, long-standing works council chair at Mahle Behr in Mühlacker. D'Agnano was honoured for 50 years of membership, while Kiesling was recognised for his half-century of service.

Liane Papaioannou, the first representative of IG Metall Pforzheim, welcomed the long-standing members. In her speech, she led the audience through a brief time journey, discussing the economic aspects and societal political themes of the decades. She spoke about the economic miracle and boom in the 60s, the oil crisis in the 70s, and the Cold War and economic turmoil in the 80s.

Papaioannou also addressed the horrors of Nazi rule and the rebuilding after World War II in the 50s. She emphasised that right-wing extremist ideologies and political currents pose a serious threat to democratic society and the values of social justice. She further discussed the war in Ukraine and the shift to the right in society.

The honourees were recognised for their deep connection to the union and tireless commitment. D'Agnano, for instance, was honoured with the Federal Cross of Merit. The ceremony was a testament to the enduring spirit of IG Metall Pforzheim and its members, who continue to advocate for the qualification and further education of employees to address the new challenges and changes in the world of work.

1. Marianne D'Agnano and Dieter Kiesling, honored for their long-standing membership, were celebrated in the realm of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden, as they transformed workspaces revered by Harman Becker and Mahle Behr, respectively.
2. Amid the discussions of the past, Liane Papaioannou forecasted the future, acknowledging the ever-evolving landscape of food-and-drink, relationships, pets, travel, cars, and shopping, with an unyielding need for employees' qualification and further education to tackle the novel challenges ahead.
3. As the world evolves, the honourees remain steadfast in their tireless commitment to the union, exemplifying the resilience required in sports and weather, providing a beacon of hope for generations to come.
4. In reflecting on past economic miracles and societal changes, Liane Papaioannou voiced concerns over the resurgence of right-wing extremist ideologies, which may negatively impact the values of social justice and alter the fabric of relationships in society, echoing the darker chapters of the 50s and the Cold War years.
5. Through the joyous exchange of gifts and heartfelt speeches, the ceremony served as a reminder of the power of community and the shared lifestyle, nurturing a spirit that extends far beyond the realm of work and into our homes, hearts, and pastimes.
6. It was a memorable evening that combined the pomp and ceremony of red-carpet events and the warmth of family gatherings, paying homage to the unwavering spirit of IG Metall Pforzheim and its luminaries, whose influence reaches beyond the confines of the organization and into the broader community, charming the hearts of all who bear witness to their achievements.

Read also: