What to Expect: A Note for Prospective Participants
Some Honest Words
Before We Travel Together
Enforcers of the Reich is an immersive global field seminar that confronts some of the most devastating legacies of the 20th century—examining the rise of the Nazi police state and the enduring impact of authoritarian control in Germany and the Czech Republic. This is a journey into the heart of historical darkness—but also into the light of resistance, moral courage, and democratic renewal. As you consider joining us, we invite you to read this brief overview of what to expect along the way:
Content Advisory: A History of Control—and Resistance
This seminar directly engages with topics such as political repression, mass surveillance, genocide, and the destruction of civil liberties. We visit places where authoritarianism was once absolute. But we also trace the many forms of resistance that rose up in response: student-led dissent in Munich, secret assassinations in Prague, and the post-war pursuit of justice in Nuremberg. These stories of bravery, risk, and defiance are central to the experience.
While the content is serious, this is not a somber or despairing trip. Quite the opposite. Anne-Marie and Rob have designed the itinerary to balance critical engagement with celebration, spotlighting the ways these cities have reclaimed public life, cultural identity, and civic dialogue. We learn hard truths—and then we lift a glass in spaces once used for propaganda, now filled with laughter, art, and shared humanity.
Cultural and Legal Sensitivities in Germany
Germany is committed to remembering its past with honesty and responsibility. It is also a country where free expression does not extend to certain forms of Nazi-related speech or symbolism. Our fellow travelers should be aware that:
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Denial or minimization of the Holocaust is a criminal offense in Germany.
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Nazi symbols, slogans, and gestures (even if used satirically or “for discussion”) are prohibited by law.
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Conversations around the Third Reich are often approached with solemnity and care in German public life.
We ask all participants to respect the legal and cultural boundaries of the countries we visit. This not only ensures compliance with local law, but also honors the lived experiences of communities still processing the legacy of the past.
Pacing, Mobility, and Group Flow
This seminar moves. While we’ve carefully built in downtime for rest and reflection, participants should expect:
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A few hotel changes
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Daily walks, sometimes over cobblestones or uneven terrain
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Use of private coaches and occasional public transportation
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Full, active days with a mix of academic content and cultural engagement
If you have questions or concerns about mobility, please reach out. We’ll make every reasonable accommodation to ensure broad participation. That said, this seminar is best suited to participants who are comfortable moving through cities, walking for moderate distances, and staying adaptable as we navigate complex urban environments and powerful historical spaces.
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