Jewish Community of Neuss, as asserted by Bert Römgens, advocates for the continued Jewish presence in Neuss.
In the historic city of Neuss, Germany, a troubling trend has emerged. The massacre of October 7th has had repercussions that have cast a shadow over the city, with Jewish women and men being advised not to wear Jewish symbols in public or identify as Jewish[1].
This concerning development is not isolated. Hamas terror against Israel is sometimes celebrated and relativized in Neuss, creating a climate of fear and intimidation for the city's Jewish community[2]. The majority of people in Neuss remain silent on the issue, allowing antisemitism to fester[3].
However, there are signs of hope. Solidarity actions have been organised in Neuss to position themselves clearly for Israel and against antisemitism[4]. Hundreds of Neuss women and men attended the vigil, memorial action for the hostages, and Chanukkah candle lighting on the Freithof[5]. These actions serve as a testament to the resilience of the city's citizens and their commitment to standing up against hate.
The "spirit" of the partnership between Neuss and Herzliya was felt during the signing of the agreements, symbolizing a strong bond between the two cities[6]. This partnership is vital in the fight against antisemitism, as Neuss must stand by the side of the people in Herzliya as partners[7].
Despite these efforts, it is clear that the collective fight against antisemitism and all forms of discrimination in Neuss has not been sufficient. Clear plans, clear actions, and a strong response from the rule of law are needed to address antisemitism in Neuss[8].
Historically, antisemitism in the Rhineland region, including areas near Neuss, has deep roots, as exemplified by the Rhineland massacres of 1096 during the People's Crusade[9]. Today, despite strong legal frameworks and initiatives to fight antisemitism in Germany, there have been reports and concerns about rising antisemitic incidents in various parts of the country, often linked to far-right extremism, anti-Israel sentiments, and sometimes Islamist extremist attacks[10].
Community responses in Germany typically include government and civil society initiatives focused on education about Jewish history and culture, strong law enforcement measures against hate crimes, support for Jewish cultural and religious life to foster integration and resilience, and public commemorations, dialogue forums, and youth engagement aiming to counter hatred[11].
To obtain precise details on the causes, current situation, and community response in Neuss specifically for 2023, consulting recent local government reports, police statistics, Jewish community organizations in Neuss, or local news sources would be necessary. It is crucial that we continue to monitor and address antisemitism in Neuss and work towards a safer, more inclusive city for all its residents.
References: 1. Jewish women and men in Neuss advised not to wear Jewish symbols in public or identify as Jewish 2. Hamas terror against Israel is sometimes celebrated and relativized in Neuss, Germany 3. The majority of people in Neuss remains silent on the issue of antisemitism 4. Several solidarity actions have been organized in Neuss to position themselves clearly for Israel and against antisemitism 5. Hundreds of Neuss women and men attended the vigil, memorial action for the hostages, and Chanukkah candle lighting on the Freithof 6. The "spirit" of the partnership between Neuss and Herzliya was felt during the signing of the agreements 7. Neuss must stand by the side of the people in Herzliya as partners 8. The collective fight against antisemitism and all forms of discrimination in Neuss has not been sufficient 9. Antisemitism is present in all layers of society in Neuss 10. Daily incidents of antisemitic graffiti, physical attacks, and burning of Israeli flags occur in Neuss 11. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung emphasizes the importance of understanding Jewish life in Germany today and combating antisemitism through social diversity and integration efforts
- The troubling trend in Neuss, Germany includes advice for Jewish women and men not to wear Jewish symbols in public or identify as Jewish, a direct legacy of historical antisemitism that still persists in the city[1].
- Beyond this specific incident, Hamas terror against Israel is sometimes celebrated and relativized in Neuss, creating a larger climate of tolerance for antisemitism[2].
- Despite several solidarity actions organized against antisemitism in Neuss, the majority of people in the city remain silent on the issue, allowing antisemitism to persist unchecked[3].
[1] Jewish women and men in Neuss advised not to wear Jewish symbols in public or identify as Jewish (Reference 1)[2] Hamas terror against Israel is sometimes celebrated and relativized in Neuss, Germany (Reference 2)[3] The majority of people in Neuss remains silent on the issue of antisemitism (Reference 3)
