The socio-cultural process of cultural heritage is always linked to power dynamics and participation; according to the findings of contemporary heritage studies. Because cultural heritage represents an extremely influential discourse; in which our perception and reception of the past is negotiated; particular importance is attributed to the negotiation of collective ‘identities’. It can be and is used to achieve political participation. This article examines how cultural heritage is used as a means of bringing about civil protest and which historical; and contemporary; circumstances influence this harnessing of the heritage. Using selected examples from anti-nuclear protests in the Wendland and those against the destruction of villages because of open-cast mining for lignite in Lusatia; comparisons are made as to how much strategic value is put on the Slavic history of both regions.

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