Reading and Conversation - Monika Taubitz: Why Are You Here? Batoul's Story

Reading and Discussion - Monika Taubitz: Why Are You Here? Batoul's Story

Forty years ago, Batoul was born in Aleppo, where she enjoyed a carefree childhood, became a teacher, got married, and gave birth to three children. Then the war broke out; one brother was killed, the family home was bombed, and her father was buried under the rubble. Her husband also lost his life. In 2013, she fled with her children, aged one and a half, nearly three, and six years old, through Syrian forests. They were rescued at the last moment by the Greek coast guard from a sinking inflatable boat and ended up in several reception centers where conditions were dire.

The author Monika Taubitz, who has lived in Meersburg for decades, fulfilled Batoul's wish to document the story of her adventurous escape and the journey to Lake Constance.

Old Train Station Sipplingen
Free Admission
Supported by the German Foundation for Engagement and Volunteering as well as the Oberschwäbische Electric Works OEW

Refugee Stories | How to Achieve Arrival? What Does Home Mean?

In 2025, Forum Allmende e.V. (Literary Association) will host a series of events with authors that explore the experiences of refugees from various perspectives. The aim is to break down the often clichéd perception of the term "refugee" and to make differentiated life stories visible. The district operates a larger refugee accommodation in Sipplingen. Here, citizen self-help took the initiative to organize an event on-site to improve understanding of the living situation of these people. Thus, literature becomes a means of encounter. The series gives a voice to both refugees and supporters alike. It aims to relativize clichés, promote empathy, and encourage people to listen more closely. Ideally, it changes attitudes – thereby contributing to an open society and a resilient democracy.