Anti -Semitism increase: Kassel exhibition clarifies!

Anti -Semitism increase: Kassel exhibition clarifies!

anti -Semitism has increased significantly in Germany since Hamas's terrorist attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The research and information center Anti-Semitism Hesse (RIAS) urgently documented this in an exhibition at the University of Kassel, which is the title "Yes, that is anti-Semitism!" carries. Susanne Urban von Rias announced at the opening that there have been thousands of anti -Semitic incidents since this date. The exhibition aims to bring incidents such as insults towards Jews and anti -Semitic art presented during the Documenta Fifteen. It was emphasized that there was hardly any anti -Semitism -free space, which illustrates the oppressive reality for Jewish people in Germany.

These events are not new. In particular, the Documenta Fifteen, which took place from June 18 to September 25, 2022, was characterized by an increase in anti -Semitic incidents. According to Rias, 38 anti -Semitic incidents occurred during this time, with 30 taking place directly at the exhibition locations. The works shown there, which are considered anti -Semitic, contain the work of the Indonesian artist group Taring Padi, which with their visual language transport negative stereotypes via Jews.

riots and art in the focus

The anti -Semitic incidents affect the feeling of security of Jewish people not only in Hesse, but throughout Germany. Problematic works of art include, for example, the series "Guernica Gaza" by Muhamad Al Hawajir, which represents the state of Israel in a negative light, as well as the work of the film collective "Subersive Film", which trivialize violence against Israel. However, the university of the University of Kassel tries to promote open discourse, but does not want to commit to a fixed definition of anti -Semitism.

The Association of Jewish Students Hessen described Kassel in November 2023 as a hotspot for anti -Semitic incidents. A clear sign of the worrying location: In 2023 there were a total of 127 anti -Semitic incidents of educational institutions - a considerable quadruple in comparison to 2022. The announced figures for 2024 will be published in May by RIAS

criticism and political spectrum

Urban also criticized the marginalization of Jewish perspectives by both fellow students and university lecturers. Another highlight of the discussion was the opinion of architecture professor Philipp Oswalt, who pointed out to anti-Semitism, which can be found in various political spectra. Oswalt expressed his concerns about the IRA definition of anti-Semitism and instead proposed the Jerusalem explanation of 2021, which was signed by 200 Holocaust researchers.

The Federal Government has reacted to the increasing anti -Semitic crimes and sees the protection of Jewish life and the fight against anti -Semitism as a primary goals. A report by the Federal Government emphasizes the need to expand knowledge of anti -Semitism and to develop long -term studies. It is recommended to intensify various anti-Semitism control programs to both federal and state levels and to strengthen the school culture of remembrance to the Shoah.

The exhibition in Kassel, which can be visited by February 24, 2025, should help to feel less threatened by anti -Semitism in their everyday life. The opening times are Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., which facilitates access to this important topic.

[hna] reports that social challenges in dealing with anti -Semitism are still enormous. In view of the high number of incidents and the threatening mood, it is crucial that society and institutions continue to work on clarifying and combating these prejudices.

The examination of anti -Semitism remains not only an academic topic, but a social requirement that can be addressed through education, discourse and sensitization.