Friedel Apelt German politician, member of the KPD and SED, trade unionist Date of Birth: 01.11.1902 Country: Germany

1. Early Life and Political Activism
2. Resistance against Nazism
3. Post-Liberation and Political Career
4. Government Service and Advocacy Work
5. Recognition and Legacy

Early Life and Political Activism

Frida Apel, born into a working-class family in 1905, completed primary school and became a textile weaver, working from home in her hometown. She married a communist miner, Adolf Franz, in 1925 and joined the German Textile Workers' Union that same year. Her political activism intensified in 1926 with her entry into the Communist Party of Germany (KPD) and the Revolutionary Trade Union Opposition in 1929.

Resistance against Nazism

As the Nazi regime ascended to power, Frida Franz engaged in resistance activities, working underground after the party was banned. In 1933, she was arrested and sentenced to three years in prison for "preparing to commit treason." She endured imprisonment in various concentration camps, including Moringen and Lichtenburg.

Post-Liberation and Political Career

Frida Apel (née Franz) resumed her education after her release from the camps and worked as an office clerk. She founded the Democratic Women's League of Germany (DFD) and served on its executive board from 1948 to 1955. After the merger of the KPD and the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), she became a member of the Socialist Unity Party of Germany (SED).

Government Service and Advocacy Work

Frida Apel held various prominent positions in the GDR, including Deputy Minister and State Secretary in the Ministry of Labor (1949-1958). She also served as a member of the GDR's National Chamber from 1948 to 1954. Her advocacy focused on women's rights, anti-fascism, and compensation for former concentration camp inmates.

Recognition and Legacy

Frida Apel remained actively involved in commemorative events related to the Ravensbrück concentration camp. In 1999, she spoke out in support of reparations for former prisoners who had been forced to work at Daimler-Benz. She passed away in 2007, leaving behind a legacy of resistance, resilience, and unwavering commitment to social justice.