Day of Solidarity: Together against anti-Semitism in Oberhausen

Day of Solidarity: Together against anti-Semitism in Oberhausen

There is an important event on the program in Oberhausen on Thursday, July 10th, which is intended to send a strong message against anti-Semitism. The Circle of friends of the liberal Jewish community of Perusch invites you to a “Day of Solidarity with Jews and Israel” at Friedensplatz 15 from 6 p.m. Anyone who is interested in learning more about Jewish culture and who would like to support values ​​such as democracy, freedom and peaceful coexistence is invited.

The program promises exciting insights: a culinary journey through Jewish cuisine is accompanied by music and singing. Admission is free, but registration is required by July 6th by email (freundeskreis@perusch.de). The background to this date should not be neglected, because on July 10, 1945, the first theater performance after the Second World War took place in Dresden: Lessing's “Nathan the Wise”. This underlines the historical relevance and the efforts to learn from the past and shape an inclusive future.

Current challenges in anti-Semitism

The event comes at a time when anti-Semitism is worryingly increasing in Germany. The Anti-Semitism Commissioner Felix Klein has reported over 2,600 anti-Semitic crimes since October 7, 2023, many related to anti-Israel demonstrations. This shows how deeply rooted the problem is in society.

The reasons for this increase are complex. What is seen as particularly worrying is that anti-Semitic statements have become increasingly popular through social media. Anti-Semitism goes beyond the offensive of right-wing extremist groups; Other political currents also use such resentments, as in the Brochure from the Federal Agency for Civic Education shows. Anti-Semitism is often incorrectly redefined as “criticism of Israel,” with many people unaware that ideological antipathy toward the Jewish state is often anti-Semitic in motivation.

A call for solidarity

In view of these challenges, the circle of friends of the liberal Jewish community of Perusch gives a valuable impulse: the concrete call to actively oppose anti-Semitism. This can be done through symbolic gestures – wearing a Star of David or greeting people with “Shalom” are simple but significant actions to show solidarity with the Jewish community. In addition, Israeli products can also find a place in everyday life, in the form of wine, oranges or dates.

In order to decisively counter anti-Semitic sentiments, it is essential that the entire society acts together. Schools can also play a key role in creating an environment in which anti-Semitism is combated. It is up to all of us to stand up for harmonious coexistence and to make it clear that hatred has no place in our society.

The event on July 10th is not only a celebratory gathering, but also a call to action. Let us work together with a good hand to promote respectful coexistence and take a stand against hatred.