Renowned Journalist and Activist Ruth Weiss Dies at 101
Ruth Weiss, a renowned journalist, author, and activist, passed away on September 5 at the age of 101. Born in Fürth in 1924, Weiss spent much of her childhood in Aschaffenburg. Her life and work, marked by courage, determination, and a tireless commitment to justice, have left an indelible mark. In 2010, the girls' Realschule in Aschaffenburg was named after her, carrying on her message of humanity and reconciliation.
Weiss' journey began in Germany, but she was forced to flee as a Jew in 1936, emigrating to South Africa. There, she became a prominent journalist and author, using her platform to fight against the apartheid regime. She met and worked alongside figures like Nelson Mandela, earning numerous awards for her decades-long commitment against racism and apartheid. These include the Federal Cross of Merit in 2014 and the Great Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany in 2024.
In recognition of her impact, the Ruth-Weiss Society was founded in 2019 to maintain her work and the values it stands for. Weiss remained connected to her homeland, regularly returning to visit. Her legacy lives on in Aschaffenburg, where the Ruth-Weiss-Realschule continues to inspire students with her message of humanity and reconciliation.
Ruth Weiss' passing marks the end of an era, but her spirit and teachings endure. Her courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice have left an indelible mark on the world. Through the Ruth-Weiss Society and the Ruth-Weiss-Realschule, her legacy continues to inspire and educate future generations.
