The President of the Humboldt University in Berlin (HU), Julia von Blumenthal, sees her university for future disputes about the Middle East conflict well prepared. “The HU has developed a comprehensive concept to combat anti-Semitism,” said Blumenthal: “Our goal is that all students and all employees of the HU feel immediately safe on campus.” There is a prevention strategy, specific security measures and a steady exchange with Jewish students and employees at the Humboldt University.
“Unfortunately, it is a fact that there is anti -Semitism at universities and also at the HU,” said Blumenthal. While classic anti -Semitism is significantly less common at universities, Israel -related anti -Semitism shows itself as widespread as in the entire society. “Specifically, we see anti -Semitism in smearings in and on buildings that we display each and can be removed immediately.” In addition, anti -Semitic posters and slogans were used in the past.
Among other things, the prevention strategy includes a presidium representative against anti-Semitism and a reporting and information center in the center of the university. “At events at the university we advise on security issues in advance.” In addition, the expertise of the counseling center for anti -Semitic violence, Ofek, is queried: “And we are closely exchanged with Jewish institutions such as the Central Council of Jews in Germany or the Jewish Student Association.”
Apprenticeships on topics such as the Middle East conflict as well as to Jewish history and culture was significantly increased
In addition, the courses on topics such as the Middle East conflict as well as Jewish history and culture have been significantly increased in the past semesters. “We also open the campus for external organizations such as” I’m from Israel, Ask Me Anything “in order to open the campus as a discourse room for productive voices.” This particularly included the events of the anti-Semitism-critical HU group Tacheles, which was initiated by Jewish and non-Jewish students.
Blumenthal emphasized: “After the attack of Hamas on Israel and the terrible escalation of the war in Gaza, we tried to address those affected at an emotional level.” This is how the sound installation commissioned by the university with the title “Mo (U) Rning” should enable a common form of grief and being seen. The installation was heard for the first time at the university on November 7 of last year.
