Black-and-white historical photograph of a large half-timbered house with a thatched roof. In front of the building are several people, including a woman in Sorbian costume.

The History of Domowina

Domowina – looking back on a rich history

The history of Domowina is marked by a strong commitment to the Sorbian language, identity and culture. Its roots reach back to the 19th century. Over the years, our umbrella organisation has made an important contribution to preserving and promoting the Sorbian language and culture.

  • 1912
    Numerous Sorbian cultural events took place at the Gesellschaftshaus in Wojerecy | Hoyerswerda at the beginning of the 20th century.
    Numerous Sorbian cultural events took place at the Gesellschaftshaus in Wojerecy | Hoyerswerda at the beginning of the 20th century.

    Founding of the Domowina

    The origins of Domowina date to 1912, when Sorbian associations came together to create a united voice for their cultural concerns. The name Domowina, derived from the word for home, reflects the organisation’s central mission: to safeguard the Sorbian homeland and its unique linguistic and cultural heritage.

    Numerous Sorbian cultural events took place at the Gesellschaftshaus in Wojerecy | Hoyerswerda at the beginning of the 20th century.
  • 1913

    Highs and Lows

    In the decades that followed, Domowina experienced highs and lows, but its dedication to Sorbian identity never faltered. In the turbulent 20th century, shaped by wars and political upheavals, Domowina proved to be a vital institution for the Sorbian people. It served not only as a cultural link but also actively advocated for Sorbian rights and recognition.

  • 1936
    Sorbian women clear rubble for the construction of the House of the Sorbs in Budyšin | Bautzen in 1953, photo: Kurt Heine, © Sorbian Cultural Archive at the Sorbian Institute
    Sorbian women clear rubble for the construction of the House of the Sorbs in Budyšin | Bautzen in 1953, photo: Kurt Heine, © Sorbian Cultural Archive at the Sorbian Institute

    During National Socialism

    During the National Socialist era, Domowina faced existential threats. The Sorbian culture and language were suppressed; the organisation was banned; and members were persecuted. Yet even under these circumstances, Domowina continued its work in secret, and after the war played an important role in the cultural revival.

    Sorbian women clear rubble for the construction of the House of the Sorbs in Budyšin | Bautzen in 1953, photo: Kurt Heine, © Sorbian Cultural Archive at the Sorbian Institute
  • 1950
    The Sorbian artist Hanka Krawcec significantly shaped the visual identity of the Domowina – the logo remains in use to this day. © Sorbian Cultural Archive at the Sorbian Institute
    The Sorbian artist Hanka Krawcec significantly shaped the visual identity of the Domowina – the logo remains in use to this day. © Sorbian Cultural Archive at the Sorbian Institute
    The Sorbian artist Hanka Krawcec significantly shaped the visual identity of the Domowina – the logo remains in use to this day. © Sorbian Cultural Archive at the Sorbian Institute
  • 1954
    Sorbian delegation with the President of the GDR, Wilhelm Pieck, 1950; photographer: Kurt Heine; © Sorbian Cultural Archive at the Sorbian Institute.
    Sorbian delegation with the President of the GDR, Wilhelm Pieck, 1950; photographer: Kurt Heine; © Sorbian Cultural Archive at the Sorbian Institute.

    State Control in the GDR

    In the GDR, despite the proclaimed unity of the nation, the Sorbian people were under pressure to assimilate. Domowina found itself in the difficult position of balancing the preservation of cultural identity with the demands of state control. The SED’s ideology also reached Domowina, causing tensions and resignations within the organisation. Both Protestant and Catholic priests even spoke out publicly against the umbrella organisation

    Sorbian delegation with the President of the GDR, Wilhelm Pieck, 1950; photographer: Kurt Heine; © Sorbian Cultural Archive at the Sorbian Institute.
  • 1990
    4th Main Assembly of the Domowina, 1997, in Chrósćicy | Crostwitz
    4th Main Assembly of the Domowina, 1997, in Chrósćicy | Crostwitz

    German Reunification

    With German reunification in 1990, the conditions for Domowina changed once again. The organisation had to face new challenges and redefine its role in a transforming society. In doing so, Domowina succeeded in establishing itself as a central actor in Sorbian life and in modernising its activities.

    4th Main Assembly of the Domowina, 1997, in Chrósćicy | Crostwitz

Today, the Domowina is a vibrant and dynamic organisation that plays a key role for the Sorbian people.

The history of the Domowina is a story of tireless dedication to the Sorbian language and culture. For over 100 years, it has reflected the ongoing development and adaptability required to preserve a living cultural tradition and to shape it for the present day.

 

Chairs of Domowina:

 

1913         Arnošt Bart | Barth
1927         Jakub Šewčik | Schewtschik
1930         Jan Křižan | Johannes Zieschang
1933         Pawoł Nedo | Paul Nedo
1951         Kurt Krjeńc | Krenz
1973         Jurij Grós | Georg Groß
1990         Bjarnat Cyž | Ziesch
1991         Jan Pawoł Nagel | Paul Nagel
1993         Jakub Brankačk | Brankatsck
2000         Jan Nuk | Nuck
seit 2011         Dawid Statnik

 


A HISTORICAL OVERVIEW OF THE DOMOWINA’S HISTORY IS PROVIDED BY DR ANNETT BRĚZANEC OF THE SORBIAN INSTITUTE. READ THE ARTICLE Here.